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Psalms 89:33 meaning

God will never fail His children, and His loyal love endures for all who trust in Him.

But I will not break off My lovingkindness from him, Nor deal falsely in My faithfulness. (v.33) In Psalm 89, these words emphasize the LORD’s unwavering commitment to fulfill His covenant promises to David, who reigned in Israel from around 1010 to 970 BC. Though the psalmist laments the apparent demise of David’s royal line, the verse here declares God’s steadfast determination to uphold His promise, no matter the circumstances. The term lovingkindness (“chesed” in Hebrew) is an expression of the LORD’s loyal love, a deep devotion that reaches beyond temporary trials, and assures His people that He will remain true to the covenant (chesed is discussed in detail as “lovingkindness” or “loyal love” in many Old Testament passages, such as Psalm 118, and is closely connected to His faithfulness; it is an integral aspect of the LORD’s covenant-making character, mentioned in references explaining His unbreakable promises).

In historical context, God pledged to establish the throne of David forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16), a promise that is echoed in many passages and is often referred to as the Davidic Covenant. Psalm 89 extols this covenant, acknowledging the Lord’s absolute reliability in contrast to the wavering faith of humanity. This verse makes it clear that even though David’s descendants falter, God’s lovingkindness will not be removed. His faithfulness stands firm, demonstrating that His nature remains constant across generations, working out His plan and ultimately pointing to the Messiah, a descendant of David, who fulfills the promise permanently (Luke 1:32-33).

Such an unbreakable pledge reveals that the LORD’s faithfulness is not dependent on human consistency. The words “Nor deal falsely in My faithfulness” declare that He never deceives nor reneges on His word. This steadfast love has comforted God’s people across history, reassuring them that although trials or discipline may come, divine love will still prevail. God’s loyal commitment, described by the Hebrew “chesed,” remains the bedrock of hope.

Psalms 89:33