Reading the Word

Psalm 132:11–18 (ESV)

11 The LORD swore to David a sure oath
from which he will not turn back:
“One of the sons of your body
I will set on your throne.
12 If your sons keep my covenant
and my testimonies that I shall teach them,
their sons also forever
shall sit on your throne.”

13 For the LORD has chosen Zion;
he has desired it for his dwelling place:
14 “This is my resting place forever;
here I will dwell, for I have desired it.
15 I will abundantly bless her provisions;
I will satisfy her poor with bread.
16 Her priests I will clothe with salvation,
and her saints will shout for joy.
17 There I will make a horn to sprout for David;
I have prepared a lamp for my anointed.
18 His enemies I will clothe with shame,
but on him his crown will shine.”

Understanding and Applying the Word

These verses refer to God’s promise to David. The Lord made a covenant promise to David that there would be a descendant of David’s who would reign forever. The promise finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

Jesus, the descendant of David (cf. Matthew 1:1), came into this world as the long-awaited Messiah. Messiah is the title that means “anointed one” and was used as a way to speak of kings because they were anointed as they began to reign. Jesus came as King, but went to the cross to die for his people. He is a King that gave his life so that his people could live. Scripture tells us that Jesus will one day come again. In his return, he will come as a conquering King who will defeat his enemies and sit as their Judge.

God is faithful to his promises. Scripture is a record of the promises he has made and their fulfillment. As we go through this Christmas season, let us remember why we celebrate: Jesus has come into the world. The King has come! God has kept his promise to David. And Jesus has brought salvation to all who believe in his name. What a wonderful and faithful God!

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