The Bible Says
Psalm 89:11-18 Meaning

As Psalm 89:11-18 continues to exalt the Lord’s reign, it declares, The heavens are Yours, the earth also is Yours; The world and all it contains, You have founded them (v. 11). These words remind us that God is the Maker and owner of all that exists, both seen and unseen. The psalmist then highlights God’s creative power in every direction with, The north and the south, You have created them; Tabor and Hermon shout for joy at Your name (v. 12). Mount Tabor is located in the Lower Galilee region of Israel, known for its distinctive dome—like shape rising about 1,886 feet above sea level, while Mount Hermon stands on the northern border, reaching over 9,000 feet in elevation and forming a majestic part of the landscape. By mentioning these specific mountains, the psalmist paints a vivid picture of all creation rejoicing in God’s limitless dominion.

Continuing the emphasis on God’s absolute authority, the psalmist proclaims, You have a strong arm; Your hand is mighty, Your right hand is exalted (v. 13). God’s power is not merely a distant concept but an active, sustaining force that upholds His creation. Because His throne is founded on integrity, the psalmist exults, Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; Lovingkindness and truth go before You (v. 14). These attributes describe the essence of God’s governance, revealing that His rule is always fair and kind. Humanity flourishes under such a reign, as seen in the joyful declaration, How blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! O LORD, they walk in the light of Your countenance (v. 15). This joyful sound can be understood as both literal and spiritual—aligned with the gracious presence of the Lord, which provides hope and confidence to His people.

The psalmist then expands on this blessing by stating, In Your name they rejoice all the day, And by Your righteousness they are exalted (v. 16). True exaltation, he suggests, is found in giving glory to the Lord rather than seeking honor in one’s own name. God Himself is the strength and favor of His people, for the text says, For You are the glory of their strength, And by Your favor our horn is exalted (v. 17). This idea resonates throughout scripture, finding its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, who is the embodiment of God’s lovingkindness and truth. Finally, the psalmist concludes, For our shield belongs to the LORD, And our king to the Holy One of Israel (v. 18). Shield and king point to God’s protective and sovereign role, echoing the promise of a divine kingship that guards and blesses those who trust in Him.