Psalms 89:22

Psalm 89:22 KJV offers a powerful declaration of divine protection and the enduring nature of God's covenant with His chosen king. This verse is nestled within a larger psalm that extols God's faithfulness, particularly concerning His promises to King David and his descendants.

Context of Psalm 89:22

Psalm 89 is a Maskil (a contemplative or instructional psalm) of Ethan the Ezrahite. It begins by celebrating the steadfast love and faithfulness of God, specifically highlighting the covenant God made with David. Verses 19-37 detail the glorious promises made to David, ensuring an everlasting dynasty and a throne that would endure as long as the sun. Verse 22 is part of this section, emphasizing the invincibility and divine protection granted to the Davidic king, a direct result of God's anointing and commitment.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Protection: The core message is God's unwavering commitment to protect His anointed from harm. "The enemy shall not exact upon him" signifies that no adversary will be able to oppress, exploit, or demand tribute from the king.
• Sovereignty Over Evil: "Nor the son of wickedness afflict him" underscores God's control over evil forces and wicked individuals. The phrase "son of wickedness" is a Hebrew idiom denoting a wicked person or one characterized by malicious intent. God ensures that such individuals will not succeed in bringing distress or suffering to His chosen one.
• God's Faithfulness: This verse, like the entire psalm, reinforces the theme of God's unchanging faithfulness to His promises. Despite later laments in the psalm concerning a perceived breach of this covenant, verse 22 stands as a testament to the ideal, divinely secured rule.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "exact" (מַשָּׁא, massa') can mean to lend on usury, to oppress, or to bring into debt. In this context, it conveys the idea of an enemy being unable to gain leverage, demand oppressive tribute, or exploit the king. The phrase "son of wickedness" (בֶּן עַוְלָה, ben 'avlah) is a common construct in Hebrew, indicating someone whose very nature is defined by wickedness or iniquity. It emphasizes the inherent evil of those who would seek to harm God's anointed.

Practical Application

While originally spoken concerning the Davidic king, Psalm 89:22 carries profound implications for believers today.

1. Assurance of God's Care: For those who are in Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant, this verse speaks to God's continued protection. We can trust that God will not allow the "enemy" or "son of wickedness" to have ultimate dominion over us. Romans 8:31 reminds us that if God is for us, who can be against us?
2. Spiritual Warfare: It reminds us that while we face spiritual adversaries, God is greater. We are called to stand firm, knowing that the enemy's power to "exact" or "afflict" is limited by divine decree.
3. Hope in Adversity: Even when facing trials, this verse offers hope that God will ultimately deliver His people and ensure that evil does not triumph. It provides comfort that our true well-being and eternal security are in His hands.