Passage: Psalm 72
The Big Idea
Psalm 72 is a prayer for the king’s son, and it reaches far beyond Solomon to the Messiah. His reign brings righteousness, peace like rain on mown grass, and dominion from sea to sea. Kings bring Him gifts. But the heart of His greatness is this: He will deliver the needy when he cries, the poor also, and him who has no helper. His name will endure forever, and all nations will call Him blessed.
Reflections
Give the king Your judgments, O God, and Your righteousness to the king’s Son (v. 1). My love for my children comes from You. Help me show them Your love, and give them the same Spirit You’ve given me in grace.
He will judge Your people with righteousness, and Your poor with justice (v. 2). Jesus, You see my weakness, and You love me. You step in and save.
The mountains will bring peace to the people (v. 3). What we really need is the peace that comes through Your forgiveness. Jesus, do it all for me, by Your cross and Your life.
He will save the children of the needy, and will break in pieces the oppressor (v. 4). I’m poor before You, and You still shower me with blessings, though I’m often calloused to Your goodness. Make me sensitive to Your grace. I stand on this promise.
They shall fear You as long as the sun and moon endure (v. 5). Your victory will endure. It’s the long game. You want me to be patient, and my flesh hates that. I often have a false sense of how urgently I need an answer. Teach me to endure, wait and live by faith.
He shall come down like rain upon the grass before mowing (v. 6). It’ll be refreshing when it comes. I’m feeling the weight of my sin today. Help me remember the cross and live there.
In His days the righteous shall flourish, and abundance of peace (v. 7). I need Your peace today.
He shall have dominion from sea to sea… all kings shall fall down before Him (vv. 8-11). There’s nothing You won’t rule. You deserve the most honor. May my life be a gift to You. Come soon, Lord Jesus.
For He will deliver the needy when he cries, the poor also, and him who has no helper (v. 12). Jesus, I need You. No one else can see or help what I’m going through. Only You. I hate sin, I hate trials, and I hate the lies that deceive people I love. Reach down and help.
He will spare the poor and needy, and will save the souls of the needy (v. 13). Help my soul today, through the rule of Your merciful Spirit.
Precious shall be their blood in His sight (v. 14). You see the lives of Your people as precious.
And He shall live; and the gold of Sheba will be given to Him; prayer also will be made for Him continually (v. 15). Resurrection, gold and daily prayer: that’s the new kingdom You’ve made. You see faith like gold. Those who trust You are more precious than anything in this world.
There will be an abundance of grain… those of the city shall flourish like grass (v. 16). You cause life and growth. You’re perfect in Your life-giving grace.
His name shall endure forever (v. 17). Nothing matters but You. You’re all that will endure. May I be found in You. Your name is greater than all, and all You’ve made alive will reign with You.
Blessed be the Lord God… who only does wondrous things! (vv. 18-19). How I long to see it! Make the hearts of the next generation alive with Your grace. You’re the Savior of the world, and no matter what has been done, You’ll make it all new.
The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended (v. 20). He was a man after Your heart. Let me love, hurt and be alive like him. I’m tired and worn out, and I’ve lost hope a bit. I know it’s not as bad as I feel; my feelings aren’t always correct. I give You all my burdens. Breathe Your Spirit into me. Fill me with Your love and grace and enable me to do Your will. Commune with me. Let my words be Your words. I know You’re there because Your Word says so, even when I don’t act like it. Help me live by faith, not feelings. Make my whole household alive today. Win against the lies and bring Your truth.
Grace Takeaway
The King of all kings is also the One who hears the needy when they cry. You don’t have to be strong to come to Him. Being poor and without a helper is exactly what qualifies you for His help.
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