Bible Commentaries
Psalms 29

Verse 10

Psalms 29:10

I. The form of the expression brings before us the peculiar conception of the universe in the ancient Hebrew mind. Even in the narrative of the Creation in Genesis the waters above the firmament are said to be separated from the waters below the firmament, and many similar passages might be quoted. The idea was that as the shores rose out of the sea, and the rain descended from heaven, so there must be motion below and around the land, as if the earth was standing upon pillars, and there was a reservoir of water above. In this Psalm the idea is that the waters were poured down from this store of waters above the firmament, while above all, beyond all the waters and the firmament, was the throne and habitation of the Eternal, where He was sitting in royal state, ruling in majesty for ever.

II. But what is most instructive for us, and at the same time most important, is not the grandeur of the picture, is not the impressiveness of the language, but the realisation of the presence of God. Though the earth itself seem ready to melt away, the Lord is still above, a sure refuge to those who put their trust in Him. "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee, because he trusteth in Thee." This is the only sure rest, the only consolation that cannot fail. Elijah seemed to be alone faithful to God in Israel; his constancy had its crown and reward. Whatever may befall, whatever darkness and gloom may seem to rest upon our path, and whatever discouragements may seem to attend our efforts, yet each of us at least can strive to live a more faithful, a purer, and truer life; and each can meet his lot, whatever may be appointed for him, in the assurance that the Lord sitteth above the flood and rules the tempest.

R. Scott, Contemporary Pulpit, vol. iii., p. 303.

Verse 11

Psalms 29:11

I. "The Lord will give strength unto His people." This implies (1) that He will enable them to come to Him at first, that the sincere desire, the Godward turning of the soul, the almost hopeless glance of penitence toward the far-off heaven, shall receive encouragement, and help, and promise; (2) the communication of the gift of power to be true witnesses and good soldiers of the truth.

II. "The Lord will bless His people with peace." This implies (1) conscious reconciliation with God; (2) the hush and harmony of the once discordant spirit.

W. M. Punshon, Sermons, p. 219.

References: Psalms 29:11 . H. Melvill, Penny Pulpit, No. 1755; G. Brooks, Outlines of Sermons, p. 96. Psalms 29:0 A. Maclaren, Life of David, p. 31; P. Thomson, Expositor, 2nd series, vol. i., p. 162.