Introduction
Psalm 21: Today’s reading is a psalm that was probably first used to celebrate a king’s military victories. It opens with praise for the help and blessings God bestowed on the king and then describes what will happen to the king’s enemies.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 21:13
We praise you, LORD, for your great strength! We will sing and praise your power.
Reading
21 The king is glad, O Lord, because you gave him strength;
he rejoices because you made him victorious.
2 You have given him his heart’s desire;
you have answered his request.
3 You came to him with great blessings
and set a crown of gold on his head.
4 He asked for life, and you gave it,
a long and lasting life.
5 His glory is great because of your help;
you have given him fame and majesty.
6 Your blessings are with him forever,
and your presence fills him with joy.
7 The king trusts in the Lord Almighty;
and because of the Lord’s constant love
he will always be secure.
8 The king will capture all his enemies;
he will capture everyone who hates him.
9 He will destroy them like a blazing fire
when he appears.
The Lord will devour them in his anger,
and fire will consume them.
10 None of their descendants will survive;
the king will kill them all.
11 They make their plans, and plot against him,
but they will not succeed.
12 He will shoot his arrows at them
and make them turn and run.
13 We praise you, Lord, for your great strength!
We will sing and praise your power.
Reflect
The people of ancient Israel fought many battles, but they were not to put their trust in military might. They were told to trust God. What verses express the king’s trust in the LORD? In what ways has the king been blessed by the LORD? In what ways has God blessed you?
Pray
I praise you, Lord God, for your great strength; I will sing and praise your power. Your glory is great, and your presence fills me joy. Almighty God, I place my trust in you and thank you for all your blessings. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Psalm 92: A song of praise
