How Does the Bible Say We Should Sing of the Goodness of God?
- Melissa Henderson Contributing Writer
- Updated Apr 23, 2024
Have you ever been so excited about something God has done in your life that you say, “I will sing of the goodness of God”? Maybe you were filled with a spiritual joy that needed to be shared with others. Songs, poems, articles, devotions, and more tell about singing of the goodness of God. Scripture gives many verses telling of singing and proclaiming His glory. How does the Bible say we should sing of the goodness of God?
What Bible Verse Says, “I Will Sing of the Goodness of God”?
“I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations.” (Psalms 89:1 NIV)
Various Bible translations include different wording of this verse. Although the words may differ, the sentiment is the same. Expressing thanksgiving and joy for God’s love, mercy, and forgiveness can be spoken in a whisper or a loud voice, written, signed, or shown through actions.
The title above the first verse of Psalms 89 reads “God’s Covenant with David” and “A Maskil of Ethan the Ezrahite.” Spelled maskil or maschil, the word refers to wisdom or meaning. God gives wisdom to His people. The way we use that wisdom can honor God or disobey Him.
Other versions tell of the singing of the Lord’s steadfast love, loyalty, and mercies. The words may change with translations, but the statement of sharing the Lord’s great love with all generations is the same.
Do We Know Who Wrote Psalm 89?
The book of Psalms forms a collection of poems for praise or petition, set to music and used to worship God.
Biblical scholars and historians note that the Psalms appear to have been written by various people, including Moses, David, King Solomon, and lesser-known people.
Some of the words were recorded to praise God, while others were written to share pain and sadness with God. Psalm 89 declares a prayer to God to protect David and Israel.
Historians—such as John Gill (1697-1771), a Calvinistic Baptist preacher—have considered the possibility of Ethan the Ezrahite being the author of Psalm 89. However, this theory is debatable since this particular Ethan may have lived centuries before King David.
Another man named Ethan could be the author. He was a singer and would have known about David’s life. This Ethan is mentioned in 1 Kings 4:31 as a wise man, but not as wise as King Solomon.
“He was wiser than anyone else, including Ethan the Ezrahite—wiser than Heman, Kalkol and Darda, the sons of Mahol. And his fame spread to all the surrounding nations.” (1 Kings 4:31 NIV)
Minister and Bible commentator Matthew Henry (1662-1714) offers another suggestion about the author. He believes that the exact date of the writing is not known. Henry says that although the time of writing is not listed, some people think it was penned during the Babylon captivity.
Do we know every detail about who wrote each word in the Bible? No. When we read God’s Word, we can trust that God has provided people to record His message for all generations. The Word of God is steadfast, true, and a guide for life.
While varying opinions about the author of Psalm 89 are explored, this allows us to learn more about God through reading His Word. Comparing different translations can offer clearer interpretations and answers. Pray before reading the Bible and ask God for clarity.
What Does Psalm 89 Say to Sing about the Goodness of God?
Psalm 89 begins with the singing of God’s steadfast love forever, saying that His faithfulness will be proclaimed to all generations. This reminds us that we are called to pass on God’s message to everyone. Through words in songs, poems, speaking, and more, we can sing about the goodness of God.
The verses continue by stating that the heavens praise His wonders and that no one can be compared to the Lord. The Psalm describes God’s awesomeness by reminding the reader that enemies were scattered with His mighty arm. People who walk in His light exalt His name and righteousness. No one is like the Lord.
“Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, Lord.” (Psalms 89:15 NIV)
How Does Psalm 89 Talk about God’s Goodness?
This Scripture begins by praising the Lord with the mouth. The author writes about the covenant made with David, who is called the chosen one. This covenant would establish descendants and a throne for all generations.
The greatness of God is explained in His ruling the sea and waves, how He crushed Rahab like a carcass, and scattered enemies. The power of God is limitless. The writer declares that the heavens and earth belong to God.
As the Psalm continues, the elements of a vision are shared. Scripture tells about God’s choice of David and how he was anointed with holy oil. God promised to be with David forever.
Next, the psalmist describes what will happen if David’s children do not obey God’s law. They will be punished with a rod and scourges for their sins.
But nothing will break the covenant between God and David.
How Does Psalm 89 Feature Lament When God’s Goodness Seems Absent?
After the words of God’s promises to David, the lament began. The people said God had rejected David and turned His back on the chosen one. Life had changed, and now they were questioning God’s covenant with David. Does this sound familiar?
Goodness had been promised. Did God promise there would be no heartache or pain? No. Does God give us the promise of a pain-free life here on earth? No.
Instead, the Father promises He will be with us every moment and never leave.
This psalm ends with asking about the faithfulness sworn to David. Then, and today, when things don’t go how we want, we often want immediate answers from God.
In Psalm 89, we read about God’s glory and love. Praise, exultation, and singing about His goodness come easily when all is well. Then, lament comes when times are tough.
The psalm ends with praise, not complaining or lament. God knows our innermost feelings. We can complain and lament, and He continues to love us.
How Do We Sing of the Goodness of God Today?
“Praise be to the Lord forever! Amen and Amen.” (Psalms 89:52 NIV)
We can sing of the goodness of God so others may know His love. Thanking God for the glorious morning, praising Him throughout the day, and giving our joys and concerns to Him in the evening are ways to proclaim His goodness.
Perhaps you have heard Christian songs that proclaim the goodness of God. Think about each verse in the song. Is there only praise for God, or is there a request for forgiveness of sins? God is good; we can rest in His promises to always love us. We are His creations.
Father, thank You for Scripture. Your Word allows us to know You and strengthen our relationship with You. Reading the Bible helps us to glean wisdom and discernment for daily living. Thank You for loving us even when we sin and fail. Thank You for listening and hearing our prayers of praise, joy, and thanksgiving. Thank You for listening and hearing our prayers of lament. Your steadfast love is forever. Amen.
In His Name,
Melissa Henderson
Photo Credit: Unsplash/Priscilla Du Preez
Melissa is the author of Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator. Her passions are helping in the community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister.
Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and at http://www.melissaghenderson.
This article is part of our larger resource library of popular Bible verse phrases and quotes. We want to provide easy to read articles that answer your questions about the meaning, origin, and history of specific verses within Scripture's context. It is our hope that these will help you better understand the meaning and purpose of God's Word in relation to your life today.
"Be Still and Know that I Am God"
"Pray Without Ceasing"
"Fearfully and Wonderfully Made"
"All Things Work Together for Good"
"Do Not Fear"
