Psalm 89:7 – “In the council of the holy ones God is greatly feared; he is more awesome than all who surround him.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Psalm 89:7 paints a vivid picture of God’s greatness within the heavenly realm. This verse reveals that even in the presence of heavenly beings—the “holy ones”—God is revered and held in awe. The phrase “greatly feared” speaks not of terror but of a deep, reverent respect. These heavenly beings, who are pure and sinless, still recognize that God is far above them in glory and majesty.
The psalmist emphasizes that no one, not even the most exalted beings in heaven, comes close to the awesomeness of God. He is supreme over all, deserving of the highest reverence. If those who dwell in God’s presence respond with such awe, how much more should we, who are limited by our human nature, stand in humble reverence before Him?
Historical Context
Psalm 89, attributed to Ethan the Ezrahite, reflects the faith and worship practices of ancient Israel. At that time, Israel’s understanding of God was deeply rooted in His role as the Creator and Sovereign over all creation, including the spiritual realm. Surrounding cultures often worshipped multiple gods and heavenly beings, believing these beings held great power.
In contrast, this psalm asserts that even within the “council of the holy ones,” God stands unmatched. This phrase may refer to the divine assembly often mentioned in Scripture, where angels and other heavenly beings gather in God’s presence (Job 1:6, 1 Kings 22:19). The psalmist is making it clear that God is not simply one among many powerful beings but is supreme over all.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Psalm 89:7 emphasizes God’s holiness and supremacy. The reverence shown to God by heavenly beings highlights His absolute authority. It tells us that God’s holiness is not just a human perspective but is recognized by those who dwell in His immediate presence.
This verse also underscores the proper attitude of worship. The “fear” of God mentioned here is not about being scared but having a profound respect and awe for His holiness and power. It’s a call for all creation, both in heaven and on earth, to acknowledge God’s greatness.
Literary Analysis
The structure of Psalm 89:7 uses vivid language to create a sense of awe. The phrase “council of the holy ones” gives a picture of a heavenly gathering where even the most exalted beings honor God. The use of the words “greatly feared” and “more awesome” serves to highlight the contrast between God and all other beings, even those who are close to Him.
The literary technique of comparing God to those in heaven emphasizes His uniqueness. By placing God above the holy ones who surround Him, the psalmist invites readers to recognize that God’s greatness is beyond what we can fully comprehend.
Biblical Cross-References
- Job 15:15: “If God places no trust in his holy ones, if even the heavens are not pure in his eyes…”
- Nehemiah 9:6: “You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host.”
- 1 Kings 22:19: “I saw the LORD sitting on his throne with all the host of heaven standing around him on his right and on his left.”
- Revelation 4:8: “Day and night they never stop saying: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.’”
These passages confirm that even the heavenly beings who are pure and powerful recognize God’s unmatched holiness and authority.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 89:7 serves as a reminder of the attitude we should have toward God. If even angels in heaven stand in awe of God’s holiness, how much more should we approach Him with reverence? This verse calls us to humble ourselves before God, recognizing that He is not just a distant figure but the all-powerful Creator who deserves our deepest respect.
In a world that often downplays the concept of reverence, this verse challenges us to approach God with the honor He is due. It reminds us that our worship should not be casual or taken lightly but should reflect the greatness of the One we are worshiping.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Psalm 89:7 reveals that God’s holiness does not contradict His love. In fact, it’s because God is holy and perfect that His love is pure and trustworthy. God’s greatness is not about being distant or unapproachable but about being perfectly righteous and good.
God’s loving nature is shown in the fact that He invites us to draw near to Him, even though He is far greater than we can ever understand. His holiness is a reminder that His love is unlike any human love—it is perfect, unchanging, and reliable.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ bridges the gap between the holy God and humanity. While Psalm 89:7 speaks of God being greatly feared among the holy ones, Jesus came to make a way for us to approach this same God with confidence.
- Hebrews 4:16: “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
- Colossians 1:16-17: “For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible… He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
- Philippians 2:10-11: “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Jesus is the expression of God’s holiness and love. Through His sacrifice, we are invited into a relationship with the God who is worshipped by the heavenly assembly.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse shape your understanding of who God is?
- In what ways can you cultivate a deeper sense of reverence for God in your daily life?
- How do you balance the understanding of God as both loving and awe-inspiring?
- What does it mean to approach God with the same reverence that the heavenly beings show?
- How can reflecting on God’s greatness change the way you pray and worship?
- How does Jesus’ role as our mediator affect your relationship with the holy God described in this verse?
These questions are designed to help you reflect on Psalm 89:7 and consider how it applies to your life and faith journey.