What does "may he live" in Psalm 72:15 reveal about Christ's eternal reign? The Phrase in Context Psalm 72:15: “Long may he live! May gold from Sheba be given him. May people ever pray for him; may they bless him all day long.” • Psalm 72 is a royal psalm originally voiced for Solomon, yet its language quickly rises above any merely human king. • The opening wish—“Long may he live!”—forms a prophetic spotlight that ultimately settles on the Messiah, the greater Son of David. Literal Meaning of “may he live” • The Hebrew jussive verb expresses an open-ended, ongoing life (“May he keep on living”). • Within the inspired text, such a wish for uninterrupted life anticipates a King who will never face the finality of death. • Taken literally, the phrase demands fulfillment in One who possesses indestructible life (Hebrews 7:16). Messianic Fulfillment in Christ • Resurrection guarantees His endless life: “I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold, I am alive forever and ever” (Revelation 1:18). • His priestly ministry depends on perpetual life: “He always lives to intercede for them” (Hebrews 7:25). • Government without termination: “Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end” (Isaiah 9:7). • Psalm 21:4 anticipates the same reality: “He asked You for life, and You granted it—length of days, forever and ever.” Implications for Christ’s Reign • Permanence—His kingdom cannot be overthrown (Daniel 7:14). • Continuous blessing—Ongoing intercession secures ceaseless grace for His people (Romans 8:34). • Worldwide honor—Gold from Sheba, perpetual prayer, and unending praise (Psalm 72:15) depict nations recognizing His death-defeating life and sovereign rule (Revelation 11:15). Practical Encouragement for Believers • Confidence: the King we serve will never die, abdicate, or be replaced. • Security: salvation rests on a living Savior whose reign ensures eternal life for all who trust Him (John 14:19). • Worship: continual praise is the fitting response to a King who “ever lives” and will reign “forever and ever” (Revelation 22:5). |
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