Psalm 21 Meaning Explained
The victory counterpart to Psalm 20. The king rejoices not just in answered prayer but in the lavish gifts of salvation, crown, life, and splendor granted by God. The psalm celebrates divine strength that utterly consumes the enemy, framing the king's triumph as the direct result of trust expressed in the previous psalm. It's a corporate song of gratitude for a salvation already accomplished.
A clear explanation of Psalm 21, its meaning, context, and message for believers today
Psalms Chapter 21 | KJV
1. To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The king shall joy in thy strength, O LORD; and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice!
2. Thou hast given him his heart's desire, and hast not withholden the request of his lips. Selah.
3. For thou preventest him with the blessings of goodness: thou settest a crown of pure gold on his head.
4. He asked life of thee, and thou gavest it him, even length of days for ever and ever.
5. His glory is great in thy salvation: honour and majesty hast thou laid upon him.
6. For thou hast made him most blessed for ever: thou hast made him exceeding glad with thy countenance.
7. For the king trusteth in the LORD, and through the mercy of the most High he shall not be moved.
8. Thine hand shall find out all thine enemies: thy right hand shall find out those that hate thee.
9. Thou shalt make them as a fiery oven in the time of thine anger: the LORD shall swallow them up in his wrath, and the fire shall devour them.
10. Their fruit shalt thou destroy from the earth, and their seed from among the children of men.
11. For they intended evil against thee: they imagined a mischievous device, which they are not able to perform.
12. Therefore shalt thou make them turn their back, when thou shalt make ready thine arrows upon thy strings against the face of them.
13. Be thou exalted, LORD, in thine own strength: so will we sing and praise thy power.
Historical Context
Psalm 21 is a royal psalm attributed to David, expressing gratitude for God’s deliverance and blessings in times of triumph.
Phrase by Phrase
- The king shall joy in thy strength, O LORD: Acknowledges that true strength and joy come from God.
- Thou hast given him his heart’s desire: God fulfills the righteous desires of the faithful.
- Thou settest a crown of pure gold upon his head: God’s blessing and honor are bestowed upon the faithful.
Application for Today
Believers can trust God to bless and strengthen those who rely on Him, giving joy and rewarding faithfulness.
FAQs
Q: What is the main message of Psalm 21?
A: Trusting God brings blessings, strength, and victory.
Q: Who receives God’s blessings in this psalm?
A: The king and those who rely on Him.
Q: How does God show favor?
A: By granting desires, strength, and honor.
Q: How can this psalm apply today?
A: Trust God for guidance, blessing, and success in life.
Conclusion
Psalm 21 emphasizes joy, strength, and blessings for those who trust God and follow His ways.
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