What does Psalm chapter 89 mean?

Psalms 88 and 89, and 1 Kings 4:31, mention the term "Ezrahite." The Ethan mentioned here may be the same as noted in 1 Kings 4:31. This may refer to a Canaanite family who integrated with Israel during their conquest of the Promised Land. A maskiyl appears to be some kind of contemplative, somber song (Psalm 32:1; 53:1; 55:1). While the psalm gives no direct connection, it might have been written in response to Egypt's successful raid against Rehoboam (1 Kings 14:25–28) or the onset of Babylonian captivity (2 Kings 24:10–16).

The psalmist begins with extensive praise of God, especially for establishing a covenant with David (2 Samuel 7:11–16). As part of this promise, the Lord planned to make David's descendants kings over Israel forever. This had implications for the Messiah: a role fulfilled by Jesus, a descendant of David. God's omnipotent might is among the reasons to worship Him. The text refers to Rahab, a sea monster (Isaiah 51:9), also used as a metaphor for Egypt (Psalm 87:4). This mention is one reason that Shishak's attack from Egypt (1 Kings 14:25) might be the motivation for Ethan's song (Psalm 89:1–10).

God's long history of power proves His ability to secure victory. The psalmist depicts God in terms of His justice, goodness, glory, strength, and love. Those who align with the Lord are blessed as a result. In one of Paul's letters (1 Corinthians 10:26), he cites similar passages (Psalm 24:1; 50:12) regarding God's ownership of all things (Psalm 89:11–18).

Next, the song speaks from the Lord's perspective as He speaks to the Messiah: the Promised One. This is the role eventually fulfilled by Jesus Christ (John 4:25–26). This figure is depicted as a world-conquering and exalted ruler. In Jesus' first coming, He came as a suffering servant (Isaiah 53); in His return, He will complete prophecies such as those in this psalm, by ruling the world in person (Revelation 20:4). Those who resist this Messiah will be utterly crushed and defeated. This is assured because God has promised it (Psalm 89:19–37).

In a rapid change of tone, the song shifts to mourning. These claims are bitter and almost read like an accusation. Israel—and the Davidic line of kings—are suffering ruin and humiliation. The psalmist goes as far as to suggest that God has rejected the covenant He made. Rather than allowing Israel's kings perpetual victory, they have experienced the worst possible defeats (Psalm 89:38–45).

The song then pleads with God, asking how long He will allow this defeat, which is associated with His wrath (Deuteronomy 28). The psalmist calls to mind the short nature of human life and the eventuality of death, asking who can deliver his soul. He wonders where God's steadfast love and His promise to David are, asking God to remember the insults Israel bears and the way their enemies mock. The psalm ends on a note of hope, with a declaration of praise for the Lord (Psalm 89:46–52).