Psalm 72

“Give the king your justice, O God, and your righteousness to the royal son! May he judge your people with righteousness, and your poor with justice!” (Psalm 72:1–2, ESV)

Solomon was king of Israel. He was the wisest man who ever lived. Under his rule Israel prospered and expanded her territory. And yet Solomon longed for the rule of a future king who would bring justice and righteousness to everyone. Even though Solomon’s reign was good for the nation, he knew that it could be better. There was still corruption. People sought favor with him to advance their own political agenda. Rebels arose who caused him much trouble. Solomon himself clung to his many foreign wives who turned his heart after other gods so that he was not loyal to the LORD (1 Kings 11:4).

Solomon envisioned one coming after him who would have a much greater reign:

“May he have dominion from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth!” (Psalm 72:8, ESV)

“May all kings fall down before him, all nations serve him!” (Psalm 72:11, ESV)

This future king’s greatness would not come from political, military or economic strength. Instead, he would be great because he cares for the poor, needy, weak and helpless. He rescues those who are being oppressed or abused.

“May his name endure forever, his fame continue as long as the sun! May people be blessed in him, all nations call him blessed!” (Psalm 72:17, ESV)

Of course only one person could fulfill Solomon’s prayer—the One who is called the Seed of Abraham through whom all the nations of the world will be blessed (Genesis 22:18).

It is our human tendency to settle in this world and try to make it better. We seek leaders who will give us what we want. But this world is passing away. Corruption will continue to spread like cancer until Jesus Christ returns to establish God’s kingdom, righteousness and purpose on the earth. Are we longing for that Day? Are we preparing ourselves and others for the return of the King? Or have we become so attached to this world that we have lost sight of the one to come?