Psalm 132:1-18 Lord, remember David, and all his afflictions:… This psalm was probably composed on the occasion of the installation of the ark in the place provided for it in the temple. Solomon himself may possibly have been the author; but it is more likely that it came from the lips of one who had been a companion of David as well as of his son. I. THE IDEA OF THE HOUSE OF GOD (vers. 1-6). David's was an agitated life; but he found time to think for the house of God. Many whose lives are very full do so still. Some of those who care most for Christ's cause and spend on it unceasing energy are the most occupied of business men. Where there is a will there is a way; let only the passion for doing good be present and the time and the means will not be wanting. David was not allowed to carry out his pious intention; but, at great trouble and expense, he collected the materials of which Solomon subsequently made use. Thus one soweth and another reapeth. The good cause descends from generation to generation; and the godly are linked to one another by the sacred task which fills the ages. II. THE OCCUPATION OF THE HOUSE OF GOD (vers. 7-9). The temple is now supposed to be complete and ready for occupation. In verse 6 the worshippers express their desire to enter the sacred precincts, and expression is given to the sentiments of awe and humility with which this should be done. But something more than the presence of worshippers is needed to constitute God's house: the presence of God Himself is requisite; and, in the next verse, He is requested to take possession of the habitation prepared for Him. Who does not know how empty the Sabbath may be, and how secular the church, when God's presence is not felt? But, when He comes down and breathes His own influence through the soul, then worship is real, and the church truly a house of God. III. THE SUPPORTS OF THE HOUSE OF GOD (vers. 10-18). In the remainder of the psalm the sacred poet recalls two oracles of the past in support of his prayer. The first is a promise, confirmed by an oath, which was given to David, that to the fruit of his body God would give the throne. And from this the inference is drawn that God will support the son of David in his great national undertaking, and the kings of the future, who will be the conservators of the sacred building. Here we perceive one of the secrets of the art of prayer: it lays hold of God's promise and pleads it. The other oracle refers to God's choice of Zion as His seat. Jehovah had announced that if a habitation for Him were built there, He would make it His rest for ever; and from this centre He would send out streams of blessing over the whole land. These glowing promises may by us be applied to the Church; and what is said about David may be applied to Christ. But these promises may also be applied to the temple of the individual soul. How blessed is the soul of which God has taken possession with the words, "This is My rest for ever," etc. (J. Stalker, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: A Song of degrees. LORD, remember David, and all his afflictions: |
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