Psalms 21:2 - Biblical Commentary

Verse: "Thou hast given him his heart's desire, and hast not withholden the request of his lips. Selah."

Introduction

The verse Psalms 21:2 encapsulates the profound theme of divine favor and human desire as expressed through prayer. This commentary draws from several public domain sources to explore the exegetical depth, theological implications, and practical applications of this verse. It is essential for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars to analyze this passage in the context of the entire psalm and its implications for understanding God's responses to the prayers of His people.

Contextual Overview

Psalms 21 is a royal psalm that celebrates the blessings bestowed upon the king of Israel. The context reveals a significant moment where the king acknowledges God’s providence and faithfulness. The verse under discussion signifies a recognition of God's approval of the king's reign as His divine support manifested in the granting of desires.

Exegesis of Psalm 21:2

Matthew Henry Comments: Matthew Henry highlights that this verse illustrates how God honors the requests arising from a faithful heart. It reveals that the king’s desires align with divine will, which indicates that his leadership is under divine guidance. The expression "heart's desire" suggests a deep spiritual longing that the king harbors, emphasizing the importance of seeking alignment with God’s purposes.

Albert Barnes Interpretation: Barnes emphasizes that this verse speaks to God's responsiveness to prayer. He notes that the phrase "not withholden the request of his lips" signifies God's readiness to grant petitions made by those who are righteous or are in alignment with His will. This relationship of prayer and answered requests serves as a foundation for faith, encouraging believers to bring their desires before God.

Adam Clarke's Reflection: Clarke points out the significance of the expression "Selah" at the end of the verse, which prompts the reader or worshiper to pause and reflect on the preceding statement. He asserts that such divine favor is a cause for worship and rejoicing, reinforcing the power of God’s answers to prayer and the joy that follows from them. Clarke also elaborates on the king’s position as one that represents God’s kingdom on earth, thus implying that what he desires should reflect God’s glory and kingdom agenda.

Theological Implications

• The Nature of Divine Favor: The granting of the king’s desires symbolizes that God’s favor is not arbitrary; it functions within the context of a covenant relationship between God and His anointed leaders.
• The Relationship Between Prayer and Desire: This verse underscores the importance of aligning one’s desires with the will of God. It serves to remind believers that prayer is not merely about self-centered requests, but rather a plea for God’s purposes to unfold.
• God's Sovereignty and Human Responsibility: The granting of requests acknowledges God’s sovereign ability to influence the hearts of His people while also highlighting the responsibility of leaders to guide their hearts towards righteous desires.

Practical Applications

Understanding Psalms 21:2 encourages several practical approaches to faith and leadership:

• Encouragement to Pray: Believers are reminded to bring their deepest desires and requests to God, trusting that He understands their hearts and is attentive to their prayers.
• Alignment with God's Will: Pastors and leaders are called to seek God’s will in their leadership roles, ensuring that their desires not only honor God but also promote the well-being of the community they serve.
• Cultivating a Heart of Worship: The concept of reflecting and pausing ("Selah") urges the community of faith to recognize and celebrate the goodness of God in their lives, fostering a posture of gratitude and reverence.

Conclusion

Psalms 21:2 captures a moment of divine interaction where the king acknowledges God’s providence in answering his heartfelt desires. The insights from esteemed commentaries reveal essential theological truths and practical applications that are vital for today’s believers. Whether serving as pastors, students, or scholars, this verse invites all to dwell deeply on God’s goodness, His responsiveness to prayer, and the alignment of human desires with His divine will.