Psalms 62:12

"God has spoken once; twice I have heard this, that power belongs to God."

Key Reflection

In the context of ancient Israelite society, where polytheistic beliefs were prevalent and gods often competed for worship, this verse emphasized monotheism by declaring that only one God has true power. The original audience would have understood this as a powerful statement against other deities and affirming the exclusive sovereignty of Yahweh over all creation, reinforcing his unique role in their lives and the world.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Also unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy -Power, indeed, belongs to GodPsalms 62:11; but this is an attribute to be feared, and while, in one respect, it will inspire confidence, or while it gives us the assurance that God is able to defend us when all else shall fail, yet, unattended by any other attribute, it might produce only apprehension and alarm. What man, weak and sinful man, needs to know is not merely that God has almighty power, but how that power will be wielded, or with what other attributes it is combined; whether it will be put forth to destroy or to save; to kill or to keep alive; to crush or to uphold.

More from Psalms 62

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Go deeper with Bible.talk - your AI Bible study companion