Psalm 93:4

Above the roar of many waters--the mighty breakers of the sea--the LORD on high is majestic.

Study Bible

Mightier
The word "mightier" in this verse emphasizes the supreme power and strength of God. In the Hebrew text, the word used is "adir," which conveys a sense of majesty and overwhelming strength. This term is often used in the Old Testament to describe God's unmatched power and authority over all creation. In a historical context, the ancient Israelites would have understood this as a direct comparison to the mighty forces of nature and the powerful empires surrounding them. God's might is not just a physical strength but a sovereign authority that surpasses all earthly powers.

than the roar
The phrase "than the roar" evokes the imagery of a powerful and tumultuous sound, akin to the crashing of waves or the rumbling of thunder. In Hebrew, the word "hamon" is used, which can refer to a loud noise or tumult. This imagery is significant as it draws a parallel between the chaotic and often frightening sounds of nature and the calming, sovereign presence of God. The Israelites, familiar with the unpredictable and sometimes destructive forces of nature, would find comfort in knowing that God's power is greater than any natural phenomenon.

of many waters
"Of many waters" refers to the vast and often overwhelming presence of large bodies of water, such as seas or oceans. In the ancient Near Eastern context, water was often seen as a symbol of chaos and disorder. The Hebrew word "mayim" is used here, which can denote both literal waters and metaphorical chaos. By stating that God is mightier than "many waters," the psalmist is affirming God's control over chaos and His ability to bring order and peace. This would have been particularly reassuring to a people who lived in a region where water could be both a source of life and a threat.

the mighty breakers
The term "the mighty breakers" refers to the powerful and relentless waves that crash upon the shore. The Hebrew word "mishbar" is used, which specifically denotes the breaking waves of the sea. This imagery highlights the unstoppable and formidable nature of these waves, which can erode even the strongest of structures over time. By comparing God's might to these "mighty breakers," the psalmist underscores the idea that God's power is not only greater but also more enduring and steadfast than the most persistent forces of nature.

of the sea
The phrase "of the sea" situates the imagery within the context of the vast and seemingly infinite ocean. In biblical times, the sea was often viewed as a symbol of mystery and the unknown, a place where human control was limited. The Hebrew word "yam" is used, which can refer to any large body of water. By asserting that God is mightier than the sea, the psalmist is proclaiming God's dominion over the entire created order, including the most mysterious and untamable parts of it. This serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the peace that comes from trusting in His ultimate authority.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, representing the sovereign and almighty God who reigns above all creation.

2. The Sea
Often symbolic in the Bible of chaos and disorder, representing the challenges and tumultuous events in life.

3. The Waters/Breakers
These symbolize the powerful and overwhelming forces in the world, both natural and metaphorical, that can seem insurmountable.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Chaos
Just as God is mightier than the roaring seas, He is sovereign over the chaos in our lives. We can trust Him to bring order and peace.

The Power of God's Word
The same God who spoke creation into existence and calmed the seas with His word is active in our lives today. His word is powerful and effective.

Faith in God's Might
In times of trouble, remember that God's power is greater than any challenge we face. Our faith should rest in His might and not in our circumstances.

God's Presence in the Storm
Even when life feels overwhelming, God is present and in control. We are never alone in our struggles.

Hope in God's Ultimate Victory
The imagery of God’s might over the sea points to the ultimate victory over evil and chaos that will be fully realized in the new creation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty over the sea help you trust Him in your personal life challenges?

2. In what ways can you apply the truth of God's might in your daily decision-making and problem-solving?

3. How does the imagery of God being mightier than the waters encourage you in your faith journey?

4. Can you think of a time when you experienced God's peace in the midst of chaos? How did that impact your relationship with Him?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, like Jesus calming the storm, enhance your understanding of God's power and presence?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1
The creation account where God brings order out of chaos, similar to His power over the chaotic waters.

Mark 4:35-41
Jesus calming the storm, demonstrating His authority over the natural world, akin to the LORD's might over the waters.

Job 38:8-11
God's questioning of Job, highlighting His control over the sea and its boundaries.

Revelation 21:1
The new heaven and new earth where the sea is no more, symbolizing the ultimate peace and order God will establish.