Psalms 68:34
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 68:34
34 Ascribe ye strength unto God: his excellency is over Israel, and his strength is in the clouds.
Chapter Context
Psalms 68 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, judgment, discipleship. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 68:34
34 Ascribe ye strength unto God: his excellency is over Israel, and his strength is in the clouds.
Analysis
The imperative 'Ascribe ye strength unto God' calls worshipers to attribute all power to God alone. His 'excellency is over Israel'—covenant people experience His glory uniquely. 'His strength is in the clouds'—God's power pervades even the heavens. True worship recognizes that every good thing originates with God (James 1:17), not human achievement. This guards against pride and cultivates humble gratitude.
Historical Context
Israel's temptation was attributing victories to their own strength (Deuteronomy 8:17). Prophets repeatedly called them to acknowledge God as the source of all blessing and power.
Reflection
- What accomplishments or strengths are you tempted to claim as your own rather than gifts from God?
- How does actively 'ascribing' strength to God in worship combat self-reliance?
- In what ways does God's 'excellency' manifest uniquely in His church today?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: 2 Peter 1:17, Revelation 19:6