May 24 (Daily reading: Psalms 108-110) The psalmist wrote five times of a “steadfast” heart or spirit (51:10; 57:7; 78:37; 108:1; 112:7). Biblical parallels of steadfast are faithful, true, firm, sure, trustworthy. In the light of these characterizations, a steadfast heart comes only from God!
David wrote that when his heart was steadfast, he could sing praises “even with my soul” (108:1). This is significant when you consider the soul consists of mind, will, and emotions. Even when the spirit is troubled, we can make the decision in our soul to praise God; we can be faithful and true because He is faithful and true!
David listed all his problems with his enemies, but this did not stop him from praising God with a steadfast heart: “With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to the LORD; and in the midst of many I will praise Him” (109:30).
Psalm 110 is the psalm most quoted in the New Testament. Why is that? Perhaps because it presents the ultimate reason that our hearts should remain steadfast, faithful, and true: The King is on His throne! Jesus is King, Ruler and Master. Not only is He King, He is “a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek” (v. 4). Melchizedek was a priest-king who blessed Abraham on the part of “God Most High” (Gen. 14:19). This psalm indicates that Melchizedek was a forerunner of the Messiah. Hebrews 7:17 quotes Psalm 110:4, proclaiming the eternal priesthood of the Messiah. The Melchizedek-like priesthood of Christ is superior to the Aaronic priesthood. The author of Hebrews expresses the significance of this fact: “Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them” (Heb. 7:25).
– Al Gary
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