02.072. Psalm 72

Psalms 72:1-20 A Psalm for Solomon. This psalm was composed by David, about the time of Solomon’s instalment in the throne of Israel, 1 Kings 1 and 2. With respect to him, here is, (1.) Fervent prayer for proper qualifications to furnish him for government, Psalms 72:1. (2.) Predictions of the peace, glory, extent, wealth, duration and happiness of his government, Psalms 72:2-17. (3.) Praise to the God of Israel for his mercies to his people, Psalms 72:18-19. But as our Redeemer is principally intended, we have concerning him, (1.) His being furnished with the Holy Ghost above measure, to qualify him for his work, Psalms 72:1. (2.) The glories of his government; how righteous, how prudent, how orderly, how condescending and merciful! how destructive to oppressors, how efficaciously productive to real religion, and how comfortable to his faithful subjects his administrations are! Psalms 72:2-9. How extensive his church, among all ranks and nations; how tender his care of the meanest of his subjects; how much he is revered and adored by them; how astonishing their increase, by means of his gospel truth preached; and how permanent and useful his government! Psalms 72:10-17. (3.) A solemn ascription of all the praise of these wonderful works to God alone, with an earnest request and believing expectation, that his glory shall fill the whole earth, Psalms 72:18-19.

While I sing these lofty notes of the dying psalmist, let me admire, let me adore, let me sing praises to Jesus my King. Let me rejoice in his highness and in his extensive usefulness to men.