Psalm 72 – The Reign of Christ

Earlier we discovered that the 150 psalms were collected into five books. Psalms 1-41 form the first book. Psalm 72 ends the second book of psalms. In this second book of Psalms we see a collection of 31 of them. It starts with Psalms 43 and ends with Psalm 72. Of the 31 in book two, David had composed and written 18 of them. Verse 20 is a summary to conclude this second book, saying “The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended.” But out of the 150 psalms in the Bible, we know that Solomon had written only two. The title of this Psalm tells us that this is one that he had written. The other that he had written is Psalm 127.

This is a song that constitutes a prayer for the new king, hence this is considered a royal psalm. As we look at the content that had been described of the king here, we know that only one person could fulfil all that. He is none other than Christ Jesus, our Messiah King. Hence this is a messianic Psalm. In verses 1-4, Psalm 72 talks about the desire for the king to bring perfect justice. It is also the desire for him to establish peace and prosperity. This is seen in verses 5-6. Verses 8-11 express the desire for the king’s dominion to increase and verses 12-14, the desire for him to help the poor and needy. Finally in verses 15-17 we see the desire for the golden reign of the king to be founded and honoured. The Psalm ended with a doxology in verses 18-19.  

This Psalm was dedicated to Solomon at the beginning of his reign. It contains a petition for him to prosper. A reflection of this Psalm suggests that it was Christ Jesus who had fulfilled every aspect of this Psalm. It describes the harmonious reign of the King who would bring together nature, society and all nations. Only the reign of Christ Jesus could be just, universal, compassionate, prosperous and glorious. Hence while this Psalm was dedicated to Solomon, it actually describes the reign of Christ. 

From this Psalm we see a glorious future for the earth. Christ the King when He comes to take His ultimate reign will bring the restoration. The perfect condition will be realized in Him. Perfect peace and harmony will be installed. Perfect justice will be executed. Every believer who received their righteousness through Christ’s person will flourish, and every curse on earth will be lifted. Meanwhile, let’s seriously apply Matthew 6:33, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness….” As we do that, everything we need on this side of earth will be released into our life, so that we can live a blessed life while waiting for the perfect restoration.