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Psalm 72 Commentary
by Brad Boyles
Psalm 72 is considered a royal psalm and coronation hymn. It presents the job description of the King in song form. Modern-day readers are tempted to gloss over the details and view the writing as purely historical. However, as always, there is practicality to be found in the Scriptures.
The psalm’s description and expectation of a human king are highly idealized. Just look at how high the bar is set.
All kings will bow down before him; all nations will serve him. 12 He rescues the poor who call to him, and those who are needy and neglected. 13 He has pity on the weak and poor; he saves the lives of those in need. 14 He rescues them from oppression and violence; their lives are precious to him.
Psalms 72:11-14 GNB
Let’s be honest, the kings we read about in Kings and Chronicles are extremely disappointing compared to the narrative found here! Under the united kingdom, David was really the only king who was consistently dedicated to the Lord. After the kingdoms split, it got even worse.
It is fitting, then, that we could consider this psalm prophetic. It looks forward to a time when depraved human kings no longer rule and a Messianic King brings hope and deliverance. Jesus is the king of Psalm 72. Read these four verses again with Jesus in mind…
All kings will bow down before him; all nations will serve him. 12 He rescues the poor who call to him, and those who are needy and neglected. 13 He has pity on the weak and poor; he saves the lives of those in need. 14 He rescues them from oppression and violence; their lives are precious to him.
Psalms 72:11-14 GNB
A ruler. A rescuer. A Redeemer. This is our Savior – the true and living King.