The Bible Says
Psalm 69:34-36 Meaning

In a remarkable crescendo of praise, the psalmist urges all of creation to come together and celebrate God's greatness when he declares Let heaven and earth praise Him, The seas and everything that moves in them (v. 34). This sweeping invitation includes not only the human realm but also the realms above and below, emphasizing that every living creature bears witness to God's sustaining power and abundant mercy. By specifically mentioning the seas and all that moves within them, Psalm 69:34-36 highlights God's boundless reach, reminding us that no corner of the universe is beyond His care or outside the scope of His adoration.

The reference to heaven and earth praising God draws upon a recurring biblical theme: all creation points back to its Creator (see Romans 1:20 for a New Testament parallel). The psalmist’s call here underscores the harmony that exists when every aspect of the world acknowledges its Author. This unifying note resonates with earlier scriptural portraits of nature rejoicing in the Lord’s splendor (Psalm 148), pointing ahead to a future hope in which everything is made new and aligns perfectly with God’s intentions.

By urging that even the seas and their movings praise Him, the psalmist envisions a cosmic choir proclaiming God’s majesty, inviting believers to join and lead this universal chorus. The human heart is compelled to align with nature's testimony, recognizing God’s rightful place as King. Far from being just poetic imagery, this verse deeply encourages faith—filled worship, reminding us that in exalting the Lord, we align ourselves with the entire created order He has formed.

Looking ahead with hope, the psalmist continues, For God will save Zion and build the cities of Judah, That they may dwell there and possess it (v. 35). Historically, Zion is a name often used for Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the people of Israel, and it stands at the heart of their covenant relationship with God. David, the second king of Israel (reigning approximately 1010 BC to 970 BC), initially established Zion as the stronghold of his kingdom, and the city later came to be seen as a special dwelling place for God’s presence.

By promising that God will restore and secure Zion and Judah's cities, the psalmist holds out a vision of renewed community and flourishing. In the biblical record, Jerusalem experienced moments of destruction and exile, most notably at the hands of the Babylonians in 586 BC. Yet this verse boldly proclaims that ruin will not have the final say. Here, the promise of God's salvation ensures that His chosen place and people will rise again, a truth that foreshadows the greater salvation believers find ultimately in Jesus (Romans 11:26).

Dwelling and possessing the land reflect not merely physical security but the restoration of covenant blessings. The moral and spiritual implications are clear: those who embrace God receive refuge and promise, exhibiting the deep connection between obedience, belonging, and blessing. By recounting these hopes, the psalmist points to God’s faithfulness across time and history, affirming that the Lord’s commitment to His people persists through adversity.

Concluding with a rich inheritance in view, the psalmist proclaims The descendants of His servants will inherit it, And those who love His name will dwell in it (v. 36). This beckons forward to future generations, underscoring the enduring value of faithfulness to God. The mention of descendants signifies lasting legacy, a reminder that devotion to the Lord does not only benefit one generation but that it also builds a spiritual heritage passed down through families and communities.

The recipients of this inheritance are described as God’s servants, implying close alignment with His will and purposes. This resonates with Jesus’ emphasis on being known by one’s fruit and obedience (Matthew 7:20-21). Lovers of God’s name find in Him the security, belonging, and peace promised in these verses, carrying on the lineage of faith that began so many centuries earlier.

In dwelling with God, believers experience a foretaste of the intimate fellowship that culminates in the New Testament vision of the heavenly city (Revelation 21:2-3). Here, the psalmist points to both a present reality — God’s presence strengthening His people — and a future hope of eternal life in His kingdom. The promise that God’s people will both belong to Him and dwell with Him reflects the unbreakable bond of steadfast love that God offers to all who seek Him.