God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him.

PSALMS 89:7KJV
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Psalms 89:7 (KJV)

What does Psalms 89:7 mean?

Psalms 89:7 says that God is to be deeply respected and held in awe by those who gather together as his faithful people, and that everyone near him should approach with reverence. The verse emphasizes the seriousness and honor due to God, especially among those who are closest to him.

The verse is part of a psalm attributed to Ethan the Ezrahite, reflecting on God’s promises and majesty. Here, the focus is on the assembly of the "saints"—a term for God’s loyal followers—gathered in worship or counsel. The verse highlights that even among the most devoted, God’s greatness inspires a sense of fear and reverence, setting the tone for how people should approach him.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 89:7

  • "God" (אֵל, El, H410) is a common Hebrew word for God, often used to stress his power and might. Its use here underlines the majesty and strength that inspire awe.
  • "Feared" (נָעַר, na'ar, H6206) means to be held in awe or to inspire trembling respect. This is not just ordinary respect, but a deep, almost overwhelming sense of awe.
  • "Assembly" (סוֹד, sod, H5475) can mean a gathering, council, or secret meeting. In this context, it refers to the gathering of God’s faithful, suggesting a close, almost intimate group.
  • "Saints" (קָדוֹשׁ, qadosh, H6918) means "holy ones" or "faithful ones." This highlights that the people being addressed are those set apart for God.
  • "Reverence" (יָרֵא, yare’, H3372) is another word for fear, but it often carries the sense of respectful awe, not terror. This word shows that those near God should approach him with deep respect.

Why Psalms 89:7 matters

  • The verse clarifies that even the most faithful, those closest to God, are called to approach him with awe and respect, not casual familiarity.
  • It connects to the wider theme of the psalm, which balances God’s promises and faithfulness with his overwhelming majesty and holiness.
  • The verse helps correct the idea that being close to God means taking him lightly; instead, it shows that true closeness increases reverence.