A King of Integrity with an Eternal Throne and Fragrant Robes

Jul 13

Jul 13 A King of Integrity with an Eternal Throne and Fragrant Robes

Devos and Studies, Psalms Devos_Studies, God's Word

Worship—the overflow of love for God

I’ve experienced times of worship where I found myself removed from my physical setting. At least, that was my sense. Amazingly, I’ve had this experience while worshipping with other believers in small gatherings and larger church settings.

It’s difficult to describe worship. Not only the personal expression of worship but also how it stirs up within the heart. I believe this is one of many reasons the Psalms continue to speak to so many people throughout the centuries.

Worship goes beyond emotion because it is spiritual. And yet, emotions often arise within a person while in a state of worship. It is both internal and eternal at the same time. It is not dependent on our external environment.

Whether alone in a beautiful natural setting or while in the middle of a flurry of activity, a person can enter a state of worship. It is literally other-worldly—supernatural—beyond our usual limitations of space, time, and matter.

This psalm is a loving, worshipful expression. Although addressed to a “king,” it transcends above any human king. Evidence of this is how is its attribution to Jesus as the Son of God and King of Kings in the Book of Hebrews (Heb 1:8-9).

Scripture

For the choir director; according to shoshannim; a maskil by Korah’s descendants; a love song.
My heart is overflowing with good news.
I will direct my song to the king. My tongue is a pen for a skillful writer.
You are the most handsome of Adam’s descendants.
Grace is poured on your lips. That is why God has blessed you forever.
Your throne, O God, is forever and ever.
The scepter in your kingdom is a scepter for justice.
You have loved what is right and hated what is wrong.
That is why God, your God, has anointed you, rather than your companions, with the oil of joy.
All your robes are ⌞fragrant⌟ with myrrh, aloes, and cassia.
The king longs for your beauty.
He is your Lord. Worship him.
I will cause your name to be remembered throughout every generation.
That is why the nations will give thanks to you forever and ever.
(Psalm 45:1-2, 6-8, 11, 17 GW) [Context– Psalm 45]

Reflections and Insights

The author wrote this psalm as a love song with a composite picture in mind of a Jewish king and his bride. It is considered a Messianic psalm because parts of it are quoted in Hebrews 1:8-9 in reference to Jesus Christ (Messiah).

The imagery and wording speak of a king who is immortal. It looks ahead to the long-awaited Jewish Messiah establishing His kingdom on earth. A kingdom noted for its eternal permanence, favor, and justice.

Today, social justice is a hot topic, but clamoring for justice is nothing new. Protests, even revolutions, use the cause of justice to legitimize them. But true justice isn’t a legal issue, it’s a moral one.

The Messianic king has an eternal throne, and is noted as one who "loved what is right and hated what is wrong." His scepter, a symbol of authority, is "for justice."

But this is not a justice based on human laws or administered by human authority. It's based on the nature and character of God, who is the originator, restorer, and maintainer of true justice.

True justice needs to be anchored in God’s nature, who is eternal, holy, and righteous. God alone is just, good, and sovereign over all. And so, God is worthy of our worship because there is no one greater.

In the narrative of this psalm, the king loves the bride. This is how Jesus loved the world and gave Himself for it (John 3:16).

As believers who trust in the Lord Jesus, our appropriate response to Him is worship—for we trust in Him who has proved His love for us. He is worthy of our expression of love through worship.