Psalm 21 looks prophetically at Jesus’ victory and glory.
How the king rejoices in your strength, O Lord! He shouts with joy because you give him victory. v1
Jesus’ victory brought shouts of joy.
For you have given him his heart’s desire; you have withheld nothing he requested. v2
The source of joy was that the Father had given Jesus everything he wanted. We can see that now but at the time of Jesus’ death this would have seemed a hollow victory. I am reminded of –
Having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. Colossians 2v15
Jesus’ victory was being executed in shame and pain! Having surrendered the highest position and gone to the lowest I sense the Lord’s affirmation and the opening up of new avenues in our relationship.
You welcomed him back with success and prosperity. You placed a crown of finest gold on his head. V3
The Lord does not look at the outward appearance he looks at the heart. The Father looked at Jesus’ heart, his faith and his love. As these shone out, so he was welcomed with a crown.
For the king trusts in the Lord. The unfailing love of the Most High will keep him from stumbling. V7
Jesus looks for trust. So, the questions comes back to me: Whether humbled or exalted do I live out faith and love? Is my heart’s desire tied up with Jesus or a sense of wellbeing?