Psalm 29
Published Sep 1, 2020
by Judy Episcopo
…The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; the LORD sits enthroned as king forever…”
Psalm 29 describes something drastic that occurs in the country of Israel. This disaster alters the natural landscape with floods (vs.10), wind (vs.5), and fire (vs.7). We may not have experienced floods, winds, or fire, but surely the events of the last six months have drastically altered our personal and national landscapes.
And yet, in the midst of the disaster God is speaking loudly.
Seven times the phrase “the voice of the LORD” appears in the descriptions of these calamities. What is this voice saying?
“Ascribe to the LORD glory and strength,..worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness..” How challenging is it to worship God in the calamity? And where is God found in the midst of all of this?
Verse 10 tells us that God is found sitting on His throne. Note His posture. He is not pacing nor wringing His hands in powerlessness. He is sitting as King over all. He is communicating that He is confidently in charge. All honor and glory and power are ascribed to Him alone, not the other things in our world that we may find impressive or intimidating.
Interestingly, the name of the virus that is upending the world is called the “Corona”virus. The word “corona” is derived from the Latin word meaning “crown”. Under a microscope, the virus looks like it has many crowns. But according to this Psalm, the “corona”virus is not king. God is. Not only that, but the political parties wreaking havoc in our country are not in charge either. God is. Similarly, whatever financial situation, relational situation, or health situation any of us may face, remember, these challenges do not have the final say. God does.
The LORD sits in judgement over His world that continues to defy Him. But with the conclusion of the Psalm we read that God is committed to saving and blessing His people. For those that turn their backs on God in difficult times, they will experience judgement. But for the ones that turn to God for salvation in their times of trouble, they will find redemption and blessing.
The Psalm describes calamity, but the final word that concludes the Psalm is “peace.” This word is like a rainbow of God’s promise of blessing, arching over the entire Psalm. It is a promise of hope and a peace that surpasses all understanding to those that cry out to Him.
Be encouraged! God has not abandoned us! Keep trusting Him and worship the Sovereign LORD alone.
