What does Psalm 29:10 mean?

David rightly perceived the Lord as sovereign over the Mediterranean Sea—this psalm seems to be inspired by the awesome power of a thunderstorm (Psalm 29:3–5). This verse seems to speak of the aftermath of such storms, in the form of a flood. It's possible David has in mind the overflow and storm surge which comes with some natural disasters.

More likely, this is a reference to the flood of Noah's day (Genesis 7:4). Like the storm depicted in this psalm, that was an act of nature over which God had sovereign control. It was the Lord who sent the rain, opened fountains of the deep, and eventually stopped the flood. That absolute control is captured by David's image of God seated on His throne above the deluge. He rules everything. He is the eternal King.

God's people should be encouraged to know their lives are not ruled by randomness or pure luck. All things are in the hands of this same eternal King. Believers have steadfast hope (2 Corinthians 1:10; Hebrews 6:19) that someday Jesus will reign over all the earth as King of kings and Lord of lords. The world may experience calamity, conflicts, and near chaos now, but peace will prevail when King Jesus takes His place on the throne of David.