The King's Wedding (Psalm 45)Sample

Behold the King

Romance was in the air the night of my twenty-first birthday. The upscale French restaurant glowed with candlelight while a violinist softly serenaded the patrons. The pop of a champagne cork drew my family's attention to a couple seated nearby. As the bottle's contents bubbled into crystal stemware, the woman noticed a diamond ring sparkling inside her glass. At that moment her date fell to one knee and proposed.

Two years later, when Skip Heitzig asked me to marry him, there was no restaurant, no ring, and little romance. As we sat in my parents' den, he rambled through an awkward proposal to which I consented. As if in shock, Skip sprang from the couch stammering, "Wait a minute. Did I just ask you to marry me? And did you say yes?" He added, "I need a drink of water and then let's talk."

Psalm 45 is a love song extolling the romance between a bride and groom on their wedding day. It includes an ornate dress, bridesmaids, gifts, and a long guest list. Many theologians believe it refers to Solomon's marriage to Pharaoh's daughter.

The author of Hebrews reveals that Psalm 45 is also a Messianic psalm referring to Jesus. "Your throne, O God will last forever" (Hebrews 1:8, NIV). But who is Christ's bride? Paul reveals, "I have betrothed you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ" (2 Corinthians 11:2, emphasis added). If you are a Christian, you are Christ's fiancée. Isn't it thrilling to realize there is romance in the heart of the Redeemer? As you study Psalm 45, visualize yourself within its verses.

The title reveals that Psalm 45 was a contemplation of the sons of Korah. Korah, a Levite and cousin of Moses and Aaron, was swallowed up by the earth because of his rebellion (see Numbers 16:32). Despite his wickedness, God allowed Korah's descendants to minister in the tabernacle during David's reign. We all have problem people or sinful situations lurking somewhere in our pasts. But you can take comfort in knowing that even if your family tree harbors broken branches, God's grace brings hope that springs eternal. The coming King proclaims, "Behold, I make all things new" (Revelation 21:5). 

Read the verses below and answer the following questions.

My heart is overflowing with a good theme;

I recite my composition concerning the King;

My tongue is the pen of a ready writer.

You are fairer than the sons of men;

Grace is poured upon Your lips;

Therefore, God has blessed You forever.

Gird Your sword upon Your

Thigh, O Mighty One,

With Your glory and Your majesty.

And in Your majesty ride prosperously because of truth,

Humility, and righteousness;

And your right hand shall teach You awesome things.

Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the King's enemies;

The peoples fall under You. (Psalm 45:1-5)

Practical Observation

1. The psalm begins with a personal word from the author. Describe his mood and the action he takes. 

Flowing

2. Next the psalmist addresses the King. Who does the King surpass in beauty? How do you know the King possesses God's favor?

Fairer.

3. What title is the King given and what actions does He take?

Fortified

4. What will He discover at His right hand?

5. Who will be affected by the King's sharp arrows?

Personal Application

a. The psalmist's heart overflowed with adoration for his King, the Mighty One. He responded by penning Psalm 45. As you think of your feelings for your King, journal a declaration of praise and adoration for the Mighty One—Jesus Christ. 

Fierce 

b. Grace, which pours from the King's lips, means kindness or undeserved favor. John described Jesus as "full of grace and truth" (John 1:14). Describe the last time you personally experienced His grace. Next, write about how you may pour grace on the life of another.