The question ‘why’ arises. The psalmist is concerned about the fate of the Davidic king—possibly referencing the death of the devout Josiah at Megiddo in 609 B.C. and the subsequent fall of the dynasty. If this was the occasion for the psalm, we can admire the psalmist’s faith during such difficult times. God made the messianic promise (2 Sam 7), and so did the heavens. Both carry the same guarantee. There is no doubt about God’s power, and all kingship originates from him (vv. 6-19). There is also no doubt about God’s promises (vv. 20-38), so whatever has happened (vv. 39-52) cannot be the final word. The psalmist was right: ‘You shall name him Jesus… and the Lord will give him the throne of his father David… and his kingdom, there will be no end’ (Lk 1:31ff).
The powerful words “love” and “faithfulness” appear at least four times each in this psalm, and not without reason. Jesus has demonstrated the power of these words clearly throughout the Gospels. If only these could become part of our daily routine, we could find happiness both here and in eternity. This psalm is excellent to pray during times of national or international conflict. If a person is hurt, God is hurt too. God’s love is faithful. No matter what, God’s love cannot turn back.