Psalm 88:34-37
I will not violate my covenant
or alter the word that went forth from my lips.
35 Once for all I have sworn by my holiness;
I will not lie to David.
36 His offspring shall endure forever,
his throne as long as the sun before me.
37 Like the moon it shall be established forever,
a faithful witness in the skies.”
We make promises all the time that we have no intention of keeping entirely. “Call me any time” really means “But not during dinner and while I am sleeping” if we are honest. Marriage vows sound similar to these words above. The bride and groom pledge lifelong devotion and obedience but we all know “for as long as we both shall live” too often means, “for until I get bored.” That is what makes this psalm so glorious. We have a promise from our God who has never broken one. He will not violate his covenant the way we breach contracts. He has kept the promise to establish the throne with his Son Jesus on the throne.
The keyword here is holiness. It is his holiness that ensures that he will not lie, cheat, and steal the way mankind does. He is not subject to the Fall but he is the God of Redemption and Restoration. If you are struggling right now and wondering if God is really with you, read this psalm. You will receive the same promise Moses and Joshua received. Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened. The Lord your God is with you wherever you go to the end of the age.
Dear Lord, thank you that we are not alone, even when we feel abandoned. Help us to see your presence in our struggles today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.