Psalms 21:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 21:2
2 Thou hast given him his heart's desire, and hast not withholden the request of his lips. Selah.
Chapter Context
Psalms 21 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, salvation, sacrifice. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-13: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 21:2
2 Thou hast given him his heart's desire, and hast not withholden the request of his lips. Selah.
Analysis
God's granting of the king's heart's desire demonstrates the Reformed doctrine of prayer's efficacy within divine sovereignty. The 'Selah' pause invites meditation on this profound truth: God answers prayers according to His perfect will. The king's desires are granted because they align with God's purposes, illustrating that sanctified hearts desire what God has decreed. This points ultimately to Christ, the perfect King whose desires were wholly aligned with the Father's will.
Historical Context
Psalm 21 is a thanksgiving psalm, likely sung after military victory. It celebrates God's faithfulness in answering the prayers of Psalm 20. The historical king (likely David or Solomon) serves as a type of Christ, the ultimate King whose requests are always granted because He perfectly obeys the Father.
Reflection
- How does understanding God's sovereignty shape the way you pray?
- What does it mean for your desires to be transformed by God's Word?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 37:4, Hebrews 7:25