A Love Song

Psalm 45

Psalm 45 is a Jewish love song in my HCSB version is titled “A Royal Wedding Song,” and in the ESV, it is titled “Your Throne, O God, is Forever.”  It may read a little different than a love song from Elvis Presley, like “It’s Now or Never” or Frank Sinatra — “It Had to Be You“ or what about the great Bing Crosby “To See You Is To Love You” 1952?

So shall we explore some of the parts of this song in Psalm 45, it was common practice in ancient times to compose songs to or in honor of the king.  As we look at verses one through five, we see the King honored; “My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer. You are the most excellent of men, and your lips have been anointed with grace since God has blessed you forever. Gird your sword on your side, you mighty one; clothe yourself with splendor and majesty.  In your majesty ride forth victoriously in the cause of truth, humility, and justice; let your right hand achieve awesome deeds.  Let your sharp arrows pierce the hearts of the king’s enemies; let the nations fall beneath your feet.”

The HCSB notes make clear this is being written for a Jewish king, for all others were not interested in truth, and justice and humility were seen only by those kings as a weakness.  Not much has changed! 

Often the people of Israel saw the King as God’s anointed, and oil was a sign of blessing from God.  God alone is Holy and just, and He honors those who love justice and hate evil.  I’m often thankful for wise men that give us insight, and verses 10-11 are such for me.  The young lady was leaving parents and friends to become the bride of the king, so her loyalty must change from parents to the king.

Now that brings to mind what happens to all who come into a personal relationship with Jesus, He is the bridegroom, and we are His bride, so should we not listen and pay attention and consider forgetting your people, and your father's house, and let Jesus become your only authority.  His love will sustain us in a fallen and evil world that does not desire truth, justice, or humility.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice