Psalms and the OT

I’m working on Psalms now, and as usual, I’m not going to be able to comment here on most of it given my weariness and my continued development of thought.  But a brief thought tonight.

The book of Psalms advances the narrative of the Old Testament.  It’s not “off on the side,” sort of a lonely relative at the reunion with the Kings and the Prophets.  Psalms is talking to the Prophets, and the Prophets are talking back.  Psalms is running alongside Samuel and Kings. 

For instance, in Samuel God promises David a lasting dynasty.  That lies pretty much under the surface through the rest of Samuel-Kings.  But it’s bubbling on the top of Psalms, as David recognizes the covenant, rejoices in the covenant, and has certain expectations because of the covenant.  How else could he (or Solomon) say, “He will rule from sea to sea” and “May his name endure forever” and “All nations will be blessed through him” (72:8, 17).

Samuel tells us that David hamstrung horses; Psalms tells us why: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (20:7).  Indeed, “O Lord, the king rejoices in your strength” (21:1).

But David didn’t trust the Lord as he should, and the book of Psalms is largely a longing for the righteous king to appear.  They had the promises of God, and they rehearsed the faithfulness of the Lord, so the question was, “How long, O Lord?”  He will come, but when?

This longing should resonate in our hearts as well. Until then, we tell of his mighty acts, meditate on his wonderful works, celebrate his abundant goodness, and call on him in truth (Ps 145).