Reflecting on the Psalms | Psalms 71-72
David's late in life reflections
Introduction
We return to our regularly scheduled programming with the last 2 psalms of Book II of the psalms (according to the original Hebrew divisions). The last verse of Psalm 72 (72:20) reads “This concludes the prayers of David son of Jesse”, indicating that the original compilers of Psalms intended to split up the psalms according to author.
Psalm 71: David’s reflections in old age
“For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth.” - Ps. 71:5 (NIV)
In this psalm, we see an example of an elderly believer who is finishing his life on earth well. David has been through a lot in his life as we’ve seen throughout his many psalms, and now he looks back and reflects on God’s goodness.
But even as he looks back, he continues to look forward to the future, and remains aware of his continued need for God. There are still enemies around him, and he still wants more of God’s presence.
He has confidence that his story isn’t over, and I think from verse 20 that he is thinking of a future resurrection: “from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up.” David’s assurance of God’s love and the hope of eternal life prevented him from feeling bitter in his old age, even as he looked back on many troubles that he had gone through.
Psalm 72: Looking with hope towards the future
“Praise be to the Lord God, the God of Israel, who alone does marvelous deeds. Praise be to his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and Amen.” - Ps. 72:18-19 (NIV)
This psalm is usually labeled “of Solomon”, but as the last verse says it concludes the prayers of David, the “of Solomon” should be understood as meaning it was by David but about his son Solomon.
Solomon was the chosen heir to follow David on the throne of Israel, and David wrote this as a blessing on Solomon’s reign. But as I read it, I can’t help but feel there should be an expectation of a final fulfillment of this blessing in Jesus.
Solomon’s reign did fulfill many of David’s blessings. He was a wise king known for just judgements, his people lived in prosperity, he was honored and given gifts by foreign rulers, and so on. But his reign didn’t endure as long as the sun, and not all the nations were blessed through his reign.
When Jesus returns, we will finally see a complete fulfillment of this blessing. The Son of God who is also a son of David will finally secure an eternal peace and prosperity on earth for all people and nations, far beyond what David and Solomon could have imagined.
Next Week: Psalms 73-75