Psalms 89:1-14
We discover Ethan the Ezrahite, as well as Heman, the author of the preceding psalm, among the wise men whom only Solomon exceeded in wisdom (1 Kings 4:31). Both belonged to the family of Zerah, the son of Judah. Their spiritual dispositions were however quite different. Whereas Heman only spoke of the valleys and gloomy places, of fury and anger, the words which recur constantly in Ethan’s psalm are words of mercy and faithfulness. These divine characteristics are recalled and praised as if to give a proper reply to the anguish which permeated the previous psalm. It is as if Ethan had written this "instruction" to rally his brother’s faith. Two believing friends thus have the privilege of encouraging one another in their trust (Proverbs 27:17; 1 Samuel 23:16). God is good; God is faithful: this is how we know Him, and our faith clings to such a God even if events appear sometimes to contradict this mercy and faithfulness (read 1 Corinthians 1:9; 1 Corinthians 10:13). When we look at circumstances we are often fearful, but if we think of the Lord and His faithful love, we shall never lose courage.
Vv. 3, 4 allude to the sure promises made to David and his seed, that is Christ (cf. 2 Samuel 7:16).