What does Psalms 89:40 Mean?

Context Summary

Here the psalmist falls into expostulation and lament. Whether he alludes to the time when Jerusalem was taken by Shishak in the days of Rehoboam, 1 Kings 14:25-26, or when the youthful prince Jehoiachin was deposed by Nebuchadnezzar, 2 Kings 24:10-16, it is impossible to say; but it seemed as if God's faithfulness had failed. The psalmist dwells sorrowfully upon the contrast between God's ancient Covenant and the sad reality. The family that had been promised perpetual duration and dominion had lost its luster and had become like a dying lamp.

Then the psalmist betakes himself to prayer, and bases his argument upon the brevity of the age. There is but a little while during which God has the opportunity of manifesting His love and truth. Literally the words are, "Remember-what a transitoriness!" Psalms 89:47. In the last three verses another plea is presented-that dishonor will accrue to God if He does not arrest the continuance of disaster. The insults and reproaches that are hurled against the servants are really directed against their God; therefore He is entreated, in vindicating them, to vindicate Himself.

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Chapter Summary: Psalms 89

¹  The psalmist praises God for his covenant
⁵  For his wonderful power
¹⁵  For the care of his church
¹⁹  For his favor to the kingdom of David
³⁸  Then complaining of contrary events
⁴⁶  He expostulates, prays, and blesses God