This article is based on the first two verses of Psalm 89, written by Ethan. Although the Bible speaks to us about different Ethans in the Old Testament, we know that the Ethan that is being talked about here is the same as that spoken in 1 Kings 4:31. He was famous for his wisdom, though obviously overshadowed by king Solomon, which means that Ethan was possibly a contemporary of Solomon and was alive during David’s reign.
This historical detail is important because it places Psalm 89 within a context of wisdom, reflection, and deep understanding of God’s dealings with His people. Ethan was not an ordinary man; he was recognized for his discernment and insight, qualities that are clearly reflected in the depth and richness of this psalm. His words are not empty expressions but the result of a life that had observed God’s faithfulness across time, leadership changes, and national circumstances.
Psalm 89 is another psalm where the name of God is glorified and proclaimed through the voice of Ethan, and once again we repeat what we have emphasized in many of our articles: every writing of the Bible has one central purpose, which is to glorify and exalt the name of God. Scripture is not merely a historical record or poetic literature; it is a divine testimony that reveals who God is, how He acts, and why He alone deserves praise.
The psalmist said:
1 I will sing of the mercies of the Lord for ever: with my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations.
2 For I have said, Mercy shall be built up for ever: thy faithfulness shalt thou establish in the very heavens.
Psalm 89:1-2
The opening declaration, “I will sing of the mercies of the Lord for ever,” is powerful and intentional. Ethan is not speaking of a temporary praise, nor of a song limited to a specific season of life. He is proclaiming an eternal commitment to praise God for His mercy. This teaches us that true worship does not depend on circumstances. Whether in abundance or lack, joy or affliction, the believer is called to remember the mercies of the Lord and to give thanks continually.
This statement also points us toward an eternal perspective. When Ethan says “for ever,” he is reminding us that praise does not end with this earthly life. As believers, we hold the hope that our worship will continue into eternity. We will proclaim, glorify, and adore God not only here on earth but also in His eternal presence. This expectation should shape the way we live today, encouraging us to cultivate hearts that are constantly aligned with worship.
Ethan continues by saying, “With my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations.” This is more than a personal confession; it is a declaration of responsibility. God’s faithfulness is not meant to be kept silent. It must be spoken, shared, and passed on from one generation to another. Our testimony becomes a bridge that allows future generations to know that God remains the same—faithful, merciful, and true.
This challenges us to reflect on our own lives. Are we making known the faithfulness of God with our words and actions? Do our children, families, and communities hear us speak about what God has done? Ethan understood that silence could cause the memory of God’s works to fade, but proclamation preserves faith and strengthens hope.
The second verse reinforces this truth by affirming that mercy is built up forever and that God’s faithfulness is established in the heavens. This imagery reminds us that God’s promises are not fragile or uncertain. They are firmly established, unshakable, and eternal. Just as the heavens stand above us, God’s faithfulness stands above every situation we may face.
Brothers and sisters, let us make Ethan’s declaration our own. Let us commit ourselves to singing of the mercies of the Lord throughout our lives. Let us speak openly about His faithfulness and ensure that future generations know there is a powerful God who saves, restores, and remains faithful forever. Amen.