Those Whose God Is The Lord

May our sons flourish in their youth

like well-nurtured plants.

May our daughters be like graceful pillars,

carved to beautify a palace. Psalm 144:12

WHEN WE READ PSALM 144, we can picture David asking God to give him victory over the enemies who threaten the safety and well-being of God’s people. In the final part of the psalm, it’s as if David imagines what life will be like when God answers his prayer. The victory that God gives will lead to blessing for all who live under the reign of the king. Their children, who are described in Psalm 128 as “young olive trees,” will continue to grow. Their sons will become like “well-nurtured plants” instead of being cut down. Their daughters will stand tall in beauty and strength instead of cowering in fear. Rather than going hungry or languishing in need, they’ll have plenty to eat and to trade. And instead of living in constant fear of being attacked, they will live a life of joy and peace.

In other words, when the Lord gives victory to his king, all who live under his rule will enjoy the benefits of that victory. And just as the blessing of the people in David’s day was tied to their king, so our blessing is tied to that of our King. All who are joined to Christ are blessed “with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ” (Ephesians 1:3).

When we read or sing this psalm, we hear our King Jesus praying for those who live under his rule. He’s praying that we will receive all the benefits of his victory accomplished on the cross. He’s praying that our sons will grow and flourish and not experience being cut down by the enemy. He’s praying that our daughters will be strong and beautiful, inside and out, rather than living in fear of enslavement. He’s praying that our families will prosper and live in safety within the city he has secured for his people.

Joyful indeed are those whose God is the Lord. Day by day we experience the blessing that is ours because we are united to Christ. May ________ flourish like a well-nurtured plant. May ________ be like a graceful pillar, carved to beautify a palace. May our family enjoy the satisfaction and security of having Jesus as our King!