Psalm 29

“Give unto the Lord” (vs. 1-2)—These first two verses are aimed at “you mighty ones.” The Hebrew is “sons of the strong ones,” or even “sons of rams.” One ancient manuscript translates it “ye hosts of angels, sons of God.” So David could be talking to angels, but more than likely “mighty ones” of the earth. Power tends to make one proud and David is trying to humble those who might have a tendency towards that vice. In effect, “there is One greater than you; acknowledge it.” Ascribe to Him the glory and excellence that He is due, and worship Him “in the beauty of holiness” (v. 2). Indeed, to the Lord, holiness is beautiful. All of us should make it our aim to be as holy as possible when we approach the throne of the Holy God of heaven and earth.

The power of “the voice of the Lord” (vs. 3-9)—Over the next several verses, David describes the power that is in God’s word. It is “over the waters” and His “glory thunders” (v. 3), an apt description of the authority, force, and might of God’s word. That “voice” (word) is powerful, full of majesty (v. 4), can break cedars (vs. 5-6); He can make them “skip like a calf”, i.e., they are nothing in power compared to Him. His voice can divide a fire (v. 7, try to do that), shake a wilderness (v, 8), cause a deer to give birth and strip a forest (v. 9), and, as a result, everyone should glorify Him (v. 9). We know from other Scriptures just how powerful the Word of God is, including His having made the universe with it (Psalm 33:6, 9), and provided us salvation through it (Romans 1:16). Jesus is the “Word” of God (John 1:1), i.e., the mind of God expressed in human form. What a marvelous thought that is. In Jesus, we see God’s mind. David rightly lauds the word of the Lord.

The Lord exalted (vs. 10-11)—Even the great flood, the most calamitous event this earth has even known, obeyed Him. He is King forever (v. 10), and He can—“will”—give strength and peace to His people (v. 11). If His word and abilities are so great as to do all that David has listed in the earlier portions of this song, then He can certainly provide us with the blessings we need to sustain us in this life. Oh, for a greater faith and trust in Him!