Psalm 21

 

Psalm 21 is another a royal psalm, but this one is sung by the people of Israel to praise God after battle, for victory.  God is exalted and praised for His strength, salvation, answer to prayers, and blessings. This psalm also points to Jesus, who fulfills the promise of the Davidic Covenant to establish the throne of his kingdom "forever and ever" (verse 4 and 6).  Just as the people of Israel sang praises for their king's victory; the Church can sing praises for Christ's victories, and we look forward with hope to His final victory over the Enemy in His Second Coming.  Amen!

Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm:

  • Looking at the what the Israelites praised the LORD for, what praises can we similarly offer to Christ our King?
  • In verse 2, the people praise God for answering their prayers, such as those that were lifted up in Psalm 20.  At times when we are not experiencing victory, are there things in our lives that might possibly be hindering our prayers?
  • Verse 7 says "For the king trusts in the LORD and through the steadfast love of the Most High he shall not be moved."  What characteristics of the LORD highlighted in this psalm give us assurance that we too can trust in the LORD and not be shaken, even in the face of battle?


If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video:

  • "Psalm 21" by The Choir of Salisbury Cathedral:  Link

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Psalm 149

Image
  Psalm 149 is part of the Final Hallel section (146-150), providing a doxology to the Book of Psalms.  These praise psalms begin and end with "Praise the LORD!" or "Hallelujah!"  This psalm is likely a victory song of praise from God's People to their King for deliverance but also judgment against their enemies. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-5 God's people are called to praise Him no matter where we are, together in assembly (v. 1) as well as alone in our beds (v. 5).  What do these verses teach us about praising the LORD? The last part of verse 4 may be translated "crowns the humble with victory," "adorns the afflicted with salvation," "beautifies the meek with salvation," "glorifies the lowly with salvation," or "exalts the oppressed by delivering them."  C.H. Spurgeon says that each "gives a new shade of meaning, well worthy
Read more

Psalm 120

Image
  Psalm 120 is the first in the Songs of Ascents series (Psalms 120-134). These songs were likely sung during the three annual festival processions to Jerusalem (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). The Feasts may typically be associated with joy, celebration, and worship, however in Psalm 120, the psalmist is crying out to the LORD in distress.  He is facing lies and deceit, such as from those in the foreign lands around him who hate peace. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 Why would it be better to turn to the LORD when facing "lying lips" and "a deceitful tongue"? Verses 5-7 What can we do when we live "among those who hate peace"? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "I Cry Unto the Lord" (Psalm 120) by Timeless Vocal Tapestry: Link
Read more

Psalm 142

Image
  Psalm 142 is in the last set of those attributed to David (138-145). This is a cave psalm (like Psalm 57), likely when David was fleeing from Saul and hid in a cave when his life was in danger. Thus, this is a prayer, crying out to the LORD for deliverance. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 What are some troubles that drive me to cry out to the LORD? Verses 3-7 When we feel overwhelmed, afraid, and alone, how is God our refuge, portion, deliverer? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Psalm 142" by Calvary Westlake:  Link
Read more