In your strength the king rejoices, O Lord,
and in your help how greatly he exults!
You have given him his heart’s desire,
and have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah
For you meet him with rich blessings;
you set a crown of fine gold on his head.
He asked you for life; you gave it to him—
length of days forever and ever.
His glory is great through your help;
splendor and majesty you bestow on him.
You bestow on him blessings forever;
you make him glad with the joy of your presence.
For the king trusts in the Lord,
and through the steadfast love of the Most High
he shall not be moved.
Your hand will find out all your enemies;
your right hand will find out those who hate you.
You will make them like a fiery furnace
when you appear.
The Lord will swallow them up in his wrath,
and fire will consume them.
You will destroy their offspring from the earth,
and their children from among humankind.
If they plan evil against you,
if they devise mischief, they will not succeed.
For you will put them to flight;
you will aim at their faces with your bows.
Be exalted, O Lord, in your strength!
We will sing and praise your power.
Questions
1. Many of the royal psalms offer prayer for the king’s might and\ wisdom. Today, offer a prayer for those who are in charge of our country, state, city, courts, schools, or churches.
2. The royal psalms speak of power, but it is different from the corrupted power we see in our world. What clues do the psalmists give to help us distinguish between God’s power and human power?
3. This week’s psalms include examples of petitions to God and thanksgiving for gifts received from God. Try to find a balance of praise, thanksgiving, and requests as you interact with people today.
4. Psalmists praise God’s mighty power and strength, but also God’s gentle protection and steadfast presence. What attributes of God do you read in today’s psalm? What attributes of God do you need to focus on in your life today?
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