Overview:
(NET) sn Psalm 72. This royal psalm contains a prayer for the Davidic king (note the imperatival form in v. 1 and the jussive forms in vv. 16–17). It is not entirely clear if vv. 2–15 express a prayer or anticipate a future reign. The translation assumes a blend of petition and vision: (I) opening prayer (v. 1), followed by anticipated results if prayer is answered (vv. 2–7); (II) prayer (v. 8), followed by anticipated results if prayer is answered (vv. 9–14); (III) closing prayer (vv. 15–17). Whether a prayer, vision, or combination of the two, the psalm depicts the king’s universal rule of peace and prosperity. As such it is indirectly messianic, for the ideal it expresses will only be fully realized during the Messiah’s earthly reign. Verses 18–19 are a conclusion for Book 2 of the Psalter (Pss 42–72; cf. Ps 41:13, which contains a similar conclusion for Book 1), while v. 20 appears to be a remnant of an earlier collection of psalms or an earlier edition of the Psalter.
Observations and reflections:
1. v.1-7 Of all the characters of a king David prayed for the justice ability for his son, Solomon v.1. Why? Because the people are God's people v.2a. When the king ruled with justice people will fear God v.5 and the people will enjoy prosperity and peace v.6-7.
All these blessings start with a good leader, a justice leader. How important for me to do my job before God. If a king only cares for his own interest then none of this will happen. Pray that I will not be selfish and lazy, but live my life to serve others with God given character.
2. v.8-14 The next thing David prayed for Solomon was the vastity of his dominion. Solomon's rulership did covered more areas among all the king of Israel, but the complete fulfillment will not be seen until the Messianic kingdom.
72:8 May he rule from sea to sea,
and from the Euphrates River to the ends of the earth!
72:9 Before him the coastlands will bow down,
and his enemies will lick the dust.
The result was the abundance of gifts and tribute v.10 and respect v.11. How did he get the respect? He cares for the poor and needy v.12-14.
When will you proud of being an American? For me, it is the time when I realize that this country has been helping the needy all over the world. People and government have both given out a lot of money to help others in a way that not many people know about. What can we do today to help the poor and cares for their needs?
3. The last prayer was about an invitation for many to pray for the king v.15-17. Note that what David mentioned here repeated what he prayed before in v.1-14. In other words, the pray was for the continuation of what the king did (offerings from Sheba, abundance of grain, and fame).
Pray for the perseverance of our leaders and ourselves. It may not be too hard to be nice for a moment, but only people with a character will continue.
Audrey
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