God’s unchanging reign provides an unfailing refuge in the face of human betrayal.
David begins with the confident declaration that “God will hear and answer them—Even the one who sits enthroned from of old—Selah” (v.19). By these words, the psalmist underscores that the Lord is not distant or detached, but actively aware of those who oppose His people. David, who reigned as the king of Israel from around 1010 BC to 970 BC, experienced many betrayals and conflicts during his lifetime, prompting him to trust in God’s sovereignty rather than human power. The phrase “sits enthroned from of old” points to the eternal reign of the Lord, emphasizing that He is not bound by time or transient circumstances.
The verse continues by describing individuals “with whom there is no change, And who do not fear God” (v.19). In other words, David observes that there are those who remain stubborn in their ways, refusing to revere the Lord or alter their course. This hardness of heart leads to a lack of respect for God’s sovereignty and justice. The psalmist perceives such people as being in a precarious position, for although they may prosper temporarily, they ultimately invite God’s corrective measures upon themselves.
Yet David’s main focus is God’s unchanging character. While people may shift and turn away from righteousness, the Lord remains constant and faithful (James 1:17). For the psalmist, this truth offers profound hope. No matter how strong the opposition or how unyielding the hearts of the wicked, God remains the ever-steady source of deliverance for those who trust in Him.
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Psalms 55:19 meaning
David begins with the confident declaration that “God will hear and answer them—Even the one who sits enthroned from of old—Selah” (v.19). By these words, the psalmist underscores that the Lord is not distant or detached, but actively aware of those who oppose His people. David, who reigned as the king of Israel from around 1010 BC to 970 BC, experienced many betrayals and conflicts during his lifetime, prompting him to trust in God’s sovereignty rather than human power. The phrase “sits enthroned from of old” points to the eternal reign of the Lord, emphasizing that He is not bound by time or transient circumstances.
The verse continues by describing individuals “with whom there is no change, And who do not fear God” (v.19). In other words, David observes that there are those who remain stubborn in their ways, refusing to revere the Lord or alter their course. This hardness of heart leads to a lack of respect for God’s sovereignty and justice. The psalmist perceives such people as being in a precarious position, for although they may prosper temporarily, they ultimately invite God’s corrective measures upon themselves.
Yet David’s main focus is God’s unchanging character. While people may shift and turn away from righteousness, the Lord remains constant and faithful (James 1:17). For the psalmist, this truth offers profound hope. No matter how strong the opposition or how unyielding the hearts of the wicked, God remains the ever-steady source of deliverance for those who trust in Him.