Psalms 66:7

He ruleth by his power for ever; his eyes behold the nations: let not the rebellious exalt themselves. Selah.

He ruleth {H4910}{H8802)} by his power {H1369} for ever {H5769}; his eyes {H5869} behold {H6822}{H8799)} the nations {H1471}: let not the rebellious {H5637}{H8802)} exalt {H7311}{H8799)}{H8675)}{H7311}{H8686)} themselves. Selah {H5542}.

With his power he rules forever; his eyes keep watch on the nations. Let no rebel arise to challenge him.

He rules forever by His power; His eyes watch the nations. Do not let the rebellious exalt themselves. Selah

He ruleth by his might for ever; His eyes observe the nations: Let not the rebellious exalt themselves. [Selah

Commentary

Psalms 66:7 offers a powerful declaration of God's enduring sovereignty and watchful eye over all creation, serving as both a comfort to the righteous and a warning to the rebellious.

Context

Psalm 66 is a psalm of thanksgiving and praise, recounting God's mighty acts throughout history and calling all the earth to worship Him. The psalmist invites all lands to "make a joyful noise unto God" (Psalm 66:1), recalling His awesome works, particularly the miraculous deliverance of Israel from Egypt and their passage through the Red Sea and Jordan (Psalm 66:6). Verse 7 transitions from historical acts to God's continuous, eternal rule, establishing His ongoing dominion over the nations.

Key Themes

  • God's Eternal Sovereignty: The verse emphasizes that God's rule is not temporary but "for ever," highlighting His unchanging power and authority over all things. This speaks to the eternal nature of God's kingdom and reign.
  • Divine Omniscience and Oversight: "His eyes behold the nations" underscores God's perfect knowledge and constant awareness of every people group, every individual, and every event on earth. Nothing escapes His notice, affirming His omnipresent gaze.
  • Warning Against Rebellion: The admonition "let not the rebellious exalt themselves" serves as a direct warning to those who defy God's authority. It implies that God's watchful eye will not tolerate pride or defiance, and those who rebel will ultimately face consequences.
  • Selah: This musical or liturgical notation, found frequently in the Psalms, signifies a pause for reflection or contemplation. It invites the reader to ponder the profound truths just stated: God's eternal rule, His omniscience, and the futility of rebellion.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase for "He ruleth by his power for ever" (mōshēl bigbūrātō lə‘ōlām) powerfully conveys the idea of God's active and enduring governance through His strength. The word mōshēl implies active dominion, not passive observation. "His eyes behold the nations" (‘êynāyw yitsfū baggōyim) uses yitsfū, meaning 'to watch' or 'to look intently,' emphasizing God's careful and discerning observation. The term "rebellious" (sōrərīm) refers to those who are stubborn, disobedient, or who turn aside from the right path, highlighting their deliberate defiance against divine authority.

Practical Application

For believers, Psalms 66:7 offers immense comfort. Knowing that God "ruleth by his power for ever" provides assurance in times of uncertainty and chaos. His unwavering control means that even when human powers seem overwhelming or unjust, God remains on the throne. His all-seeing eyes ensure that justice will ultimately prevail and that no act of rebellion against Him will go unnoticed or unaddressed. This verse calls us to humility, urging us not to exalt ourselves or challenge God's perfect will, but rather to trust in His sovereign plan and submit to His authority. It reminds us that true security and wisdom lie in acknowledging and honoring God's eternal dominion over all creation.

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 11:4 (8 votes)

    ¶ The LORD [is] in his holy temple, the LORD'S throne [is] in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men.

  • Matthew 28:18 (4 votes)

    And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

  • Daniel 4:35 (3 votes)

    And all the inhabitants of the earth [are] reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and [among] the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?

  • Psalms 75:4 (3 votes)

    I said unto the fools, Deal not foolishly: and to the wicked, Lift not up the horn:

  • Psalms 75:5 (3 votes)

    Lift not up your horn on high: speak [not with] a stiff neck.

  • Psalms 33:13 (3 votes)

    The LORD looketh from heaven; he beholdeth all the sons of men.

  • 2 Chronicles 16:9 (3 votes)

    For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of [them] whose heart [is] perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.