August 17, 2021
Scripture: But let your hand be on the man of your right hand, the son of man whom you have made strong for yourself! Then we shall not turn back from you; give us life, and we will call upon your name! Psalm 80:17-18 ESV
Observation: Given the authorship (Asaph, tabernacle singer under David’s reign), the son of man at God’s right hand likely refers to Israel’s king. “Right hand” was a metaphor for an anointed position of power. With this in mind, Asaph was probably petitioning Yahweh to restore David’s throne to its rightful place of power and authority. Thereby, under robust and godly leadership, Israel would stay on course in following God’s will. But, as often in the psalms and prophetic writings, the author (being led by the Spirit) foretells fulfillment in Christ. Jesus referred to himself as the Son of Man (a title also used by Daniel and Ezekiel) to identify himself as the one who fulfills the prophecies regarding the Messiah, who is God incarnate (fully human). And regarding sitting at the “right hand,” Jesus and his disciples understood that he was the “Lord” whom David prophesied would sit at the right hand of God and put all enemies under his feet (Mark 12:36, Acts 2:34, Hebrews 2:34).
Takeaway: When Jesus takes his rightful place of enthronement in our hearts and minds, he “gives us life.” Resultantly, we will not turn away from the Father (keep on sinning without compunction and repentance, 1 John 5:18), and we will have full access to call upon (pray) to our Lord for help (Hebrews 4:16).
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your Son who has “given us life,” who has secured our place in your heavenly kingdom. In your mercy, please help us to call on you throughout our day, that we might submit to your Son’s reign in our hearts and minds. Amen.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling
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