Psalms 105:8

¶ He hath remembered his covenant for ever, the word [which] he commanded to a thousand generations.

He hath remembered {H2142} his covenant {H1285} for ever {H5769}, the word {H1697} which he commanded {H6680} to a thousand {H505} generations {H1755}.

He remembers his covenant forever, the word he commanded to a thousand generations,

He remembers His covenant forever, the word He ordained for a thousand generations—

He hath remembered his covenant for ever, The word which he commanded to a thousand generations,

Commentary

Context of Psalms 105:8

Psalm 105 is a historical psalm, a powerful anthem of praise that recounts God's faithfulness to Israel from the time of Abraham through their settlement in the land of Canaan. It serves as a reminder to the Israelites of God's miraculous works and His unwavering commitment to His people. The psalm encourages them to remember God's deeds and to seek His face continually. Verse 8 specifically hones in on the foundational promise, emphasizing God's divine remembrance of His covenant, which sets the stage for the subsequent narrative of His protective care and provision.

Key Themes and Messages

  • God's Unwavering Faithfulness: The verse highlights the core truth that God is faithful to His promises. He "hath remembered his covenant for ever," indicating that His word is not subject to change or forgetfulness. This divine remembrance is an active, enduring commitment.
  • The Eternal Nature of God's Covenant: The phrase "for ever" and "to a thousand generations" powerfully conveys the timelessness and permanence of God's word. It assures believers that God's promises extend far beyond any single lifetime or era, impacting countless future generations. This is a foundational aspect of the everlasting covenant God made with Abraham and his descendants.
  • Divine Remembrance: Unlike human remembrance, God's "remembering" is not merely recalling a past event but actively upholding and fulfilling His word. It signifies His ongoing commitment to the terms of His covenant, acting on behalf of those with whom He has covenanted.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "remembered" is zākar (זָכַר), which implies more than just mental recollection. In biblical usage, when God "remembers," it means He is acting on behalf of His promises, bringing them to fruition. For example, when God remembered Noah during the flood, it led to the waters receding. The term "covenant" (Hebrew: bĕrît – בְּרִית) refers to a solemn, binding agreement, often initiated by God, with specific obligations and promises. The phrase "a thousand generations" is a hyperbole signifying an incredibly long duration, effectively meaning "for all time" or "eternally," emphasizing the enduring validity of God's word.

Practical Application

Psalms 105:8 offers profound comfort and reassurance to believers today. Knowing that God remembers and acts upon His covenant "for ever" provides a solid foundation for faith and hope. It reminds us that God's promises, whether for salvation, provision, or protection, are immutable and will be fulfilled. This truth encourages us to trust in God's character and His unfailing word, especially in times of uncertainty. It serves as a powerful reminder that our hope is not in fleeting circumstances but in the eternal, unchanging God who cannot deny Himself and His promises.

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Cross-References

  • Deuteronomy 7:9 (8 votes)

    Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he [is] God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;
  • Psalms 106:45 (7 votes)

    And he remembered for them his covenant, and repented according to the multitude of his mercies.
  • Psalms 111:5 (7 votes)

    He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant.
  • 1 Chronicles 16:15 (5 votes)

    Be ye mindful always of his covenant; the word [which] he commanded to a thousand generations;
  • Psalms 105:42 (5 votes)

    For he remembered his holy promise, [and] Abraham his servant.
  • Luke 1:72 (5 votes)

    To perform the mercy [promised] to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant;
  • Luke 1:74 (5 votes)

    That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear,