The Bible Says
Psalm 68:32-35 Meaning

In Psalm 68:32-35 we read: Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth; Sing praises to the Lord, Selah (v. 32). This call to worship extends beyond Israel to all nations, inviting every realm and domain under heaven to lift up songs of praise. The word Selah often signifies a pause or moment of reflection, prompting all who read or hear these words to linger on the majesty of God’s global dominion. Historically, King David - who reigned over Israel roughly from 1010 BC to 970 BC - is credited as the composer of many psalms, including this one, thus establishing a timeless directive for generations to proclaim God’s honor.

This command to sing emphasizes unity among numerous diverse peoples. It underscores that the Almighty is worthy of every voice, not just a select group or a single nation. God’s rulership knows no boundaries, extending to every part of the earth, creating a universal chorus of worship. Even before Christ’s earthly ministry, the psalmist’s words anticipate a global plan for salvation, later fulfilled by Jesus, who sends His disciples to the ends of the earth (Matthew 28:19).

By summoning all kingdoms of the earth, the psalmist highlights God’s rightful sovereignty. This theme resonates throughout Scripture, reaffirming that every people group is invited under the Lord’s reign. In the New Testament, Revelation 7:9 shows a great multitude from every nation standing before God, fulfilling this vision of universal praise. The notion of everyone joining together in song reveals the breadth of God’s plan, bridging Old Testament proclamations with New Testament fulfillments.

To Him who rides upon the highest heavens, which are from ancient times; Behold, He speaks forth with His voice, a mighty voice (v. 33). This imagery of God occupying the highest heavens speaks to His unmatchable power and eternal reign. He is not confined to earth but reigns from celestial realms, enjoying dominion from beyond the visible realm. In David’s historical context, proclaiming God’s authority over the heavens pushed listeners to recognize there is no god or power that rivals the Supreme One who has reigned from ancient times.

The phrase a mighty voice reminds us that when God speaks, creation responds. Throughout the Old Testament, God’s voice brought the world into being, subdued nations, and guided the destiny of His people, Israel, located on the eastern shores of the Mediterranean Sea. This same voice would speak through prophets and find its ultimate expression when the Word became flesh in Jesus (John 1:14). Thus, the eternal nature of God’s power resonates into the New Testament era.

Furthermore, the psalmist calls on believers to be attentive to the Lord’s proclamations. God’s mighty voice is not distant or silent; it engages His people and carries authority over every circumstance. His promises and commands echo through Scripture, inviting our response of believing faith and reverent awe.

Ascribe strength to God; His majesty is over Israel And His strength is in the skies (v. 34). Assigning strength to God recognizes Him as the ultimate source of power. While David speaks as the king of Israel, he acknowledges that every success of his kingdom belongs to the hand of the Most High. Historically, Israel was a beacon for God’s interventions, standing as evidence of His majesty and protective care.

The phrase His majesty is over Israel points specifically to God’s special covenant relationship with the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Although this chosen nation dwells in a relatively small geographic area, God’s majesty extends far beyond her borders. David, living about a millennium before Jesus, grasped that the Lord’s providential care over Israel would bless all the earth (Genesis 12:3), an idea culminating in the Messiah’s advent.

His strength is in the skies expands this thought, reminding the worshiper that the Lord’s power is visible not only in the earthly realm but also in the vast expanse of the heavens. This theme of God’s cosmic might finds echoes in the New Testament, where Jesus’s rule extends over all principalities and powers (Ephesians 1:21). The psalm thus forms a bridge between the faith of ancient Israel and the global testament of Christ’s kingship.

O God, You are awesome from Your sanctuary. The God of Israel Himself gives strength and power to the people. Blessed be God (v. 35). The psalmist concludes this passage with a reverential exclamation of God’s awesomeness, focusing on the sanctuary - a reference to the holy place where God’s presence was specially manifest among His people. In David’s era, the sanctuary likely refers to the tabernacle and later the temple in Jerusalem, signifying a central location where the Almighty chose to dwell in a unique way.

By declaring that The God of Israel Himself gives strength and power to the people, the psalmist affirms God’s willingness to share His might with those who trust in Him. This gracious endowment of strength is fully realized in the New Testament when the Holy Spirit empowers believers (Acts 1:8). The awe - inspiring wonder of God’s presence, once confined to a physical sanctuary, becomes available to all who believe in Christ’s redemptive work.

Finally, Blessed be God links the hearts of all worshipers, past and present, in a final praise for the Lord’s nature and deeds. Declaring blessing upon God expresses both gratitude and honor, an offering that concludes this psalm on a note of exaltation. The worshiper lifts up the Lord’s name, acknowledging every demonstration of His generosity and protection.