The King Saves the Poor and Needy

Psalm 72 finds its fulfillment in Christ the King. He is called the royal son (NIV) in verse one. But what manner of King is this One? In verse 2, He judges the "afflicted" ones with justice. Verse four sees Him saving the children of the "needy". This theme is repeated in verses 12 to 14:

Psalm 72:12 For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. 13 He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death. 14 He will rescue them from oppression and violence, for precious is their blood in his sight.

These verses spell out who it is the King will help. No mention is made of the successful and admired, but rather the poor, the abandon ed, the thought-least-of. Who but a king in heart would even dare look upon the poor, let alone respond to them with his help?

Poor and needy can refer to finances, circumstance, situations, health, personality, confidence, ability, the spiritual condition of our souls, and everything else that affects us. The King cares for and delivers all who cry out to Him, who have no one to help. He is willing to help, and He also has the power to help. He especially cares for those who suffer oppression and violence, for their blood is precious in His sight.

Praise, glory, blessings, thanksgivings, and honor to the King fill the rest of this psalm, to Him who is our Lord, the One who ransomed us, the poor and afflicted. Such humility and condescension are incomprehensible to me.

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Lord, I find myself without words as I consider the greatness of the King and the complete poverty of the afflicted, the poor, and the needy. What gain for Himself could the King have in helping such as these? None; the focus is on the giving. O Lord, I cry out to You, "I am afflicted; I am poor and needy," for in so doing, I am guaranteed a blessing from the King's gracious hand. Thank-You, Jesus, my Lord. Amen.