Definition: And I will beat down his foes before his face, and plague them that hate him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 89:23 – it's a really powerful and comforting passage. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about God’s protection and judgment against those who oppose Him. It’s saying that God will actively defend His chosen people, and He won't tolerate hatred or bitterness towards them. Let’s unpack it word by word: “And I will beat down his foes before his face” : This is a metaphorical image. "His foes" refers to those who oppose God, those who are rebellious, those who hate Him, and anyone who actively tries to thwart His plans or cause harm. “Beat down” means to forcefully defeat or overcome. “And plague them that hate him” : This part emphasizes the consequence of these enemies’ actions. "Plague" is a strong word – it means to afflict with disease, suffering, or ruin. The phrase “that hate him” specifically targets those who are deeply opposed to God and his purpose. What does this mean in practical terms? It's about God’s unwavering love: It shows that God doesn't just tolerate opposition; He actively seeks to protect His people from those who would harm them. It’s about justice: The verse suggests a righteous and just outcome for those who oppose God, as they will be dealt with. It’s a promise of protection: It offers comfort and reassurance that God is watching over His faithful followers and will not let them down. In short, Psalm 89:23 describes God's deliberate action to defend His people against those who are hostile towards Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the history or meaning of this passage? Offer a related analogy (like a shield protecting someone)?