What is the meaning of Psalm 89:17? For You are the glory • The verse begins by turning the spotlight entirely on God: “For You are the glory…” (Psalm 89:17). • Glory speaks of weight, worth, radiance; everything admirable in Israel was reflected light from Him. • Cross references highlight this pattern: – “But You, O LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, and the One who lifts my head.” (Psalm 3:3) – “The sun will no longer be your light by day… but the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your splendor.” (Isaiah 60:19) • Practical takeaway: any honor a believer enjoys should point back to the Lord, never to self-promotion (1 Corinthians 1:31). of their strength • God is not merely the source of strength; He is the glory of that strength. The emphasis is relational—His people possess power only because He chooses to dwell among them. • Supporting passages: – “The LORD is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation.” (Exodus 15:2) – “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped.” (Psalm 28:7) • Living it out: lean on divine strength rather than personal resources (2 Corinthians 12:9). and by Your favor • “Favor” underscores the unearned, gracious nature of God’s dealings. Israel’s victories arose from covenant love, not military prowess. • Scripture echoes: – “For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor is for a lifetime.” (Psalm 30:5) – “He mocks the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (Proverbs 3:34; James 4:6) • Application bullet points: – Recognize daily mercies as divine favor. – Respond with humility and gratitude (Ephesians 2:8-9). our horn is exalted • In Scripture a “horn” depicts power, dignity, and triumph—think of a strong animal lifting its horns high. • God’s favor lifts the horn; believers don’t exalt themselves. • Cross references: – “But You have exalted my horn like that of a wild ox.” (Psalm 92:10) – “The LORD will judge the ends of the earth. He will give strength to His king and exalt the horn of His anointed.” (1 Samuel 2:10) – “He has raised up a horn of salvation for us…” (Luke 1:69) • Encouragement: anticipate God-given victories that magnify His name rather than ours. summary Psalm 89:17 teaches that every ounce of strength, honor, and victory God’s people enjoy flows from Him. He is the glory adorning their power, the gracious favor that lifts their authority, and the One who ensures their triumphs point back to His greatness. The verse calls believers to live dependently, gratefully, and expectantly—celebrating the God who shares His glory yet keeps the praise for Himself. |
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