Psalms 72:20: “This concludes the prayers of David son of Jesse.”
Psalm 72:20 is a closing verse that marks the end of the prayers attributed to David in the book of Psalms. This verse brings a sense of finality, noting that these prayers, many of which have been cries for help, songs of praise, and requests for justice, have now come to a close. It’s a reminder of the devotion of David, who sought God’s guidance and protection for himself and for the kingdom.
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This simple statement, “This concludes the prayers of David son of Jesse,” serves as a capstone to David’s collection of psalms. It tells us that these prayers—filled with expressions of dependence, hope, and worship—are not random or isolated thoughts but are part of a lifelong conversation between David and God. This final verse signifies the end of a series of prayers that have covered almost every human emotion and circumstance. It reflects David’s heart as he sought God’s guidance and blessings over his life, his kingdom, and his people.
Historical Context
David, the “son of Jesse,” was the second king of Israel and one of the most significant figures in the Old Testament. Known for his courage, worship, and heart for God, David’s life was marked by both incredible victories and painful failures. The book of Psalms contains many of his prayers, spanning a lifetime of varied experiences. Psalm 72 is attributed to Solomon, David’s son, but this closing verse likely serves as a marker for the end of the collected prayers of David in the psalms. The prayers of David reflect not only his personal walk with God but also the concerns of a king seeking God’s will for his people and his nation.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Psalm 72:20 reminds us of the importance of prayer as an ongoing conversation with God. David’s prayers reflect a lifetime of faith, trust, and dependence on God. This verse serves as a reminder that prayer isn’t just a set of words or requests; it’s a way of life, a relationship marked by honesty and openness before God. David’s prayers throughout the Psalms reveal a person who didn’t just call out to God in times of need but who built his life around seeking God’s presence, guidance, and forgiveness. It shows that God invites us to bring every part of our lives before Him.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 72:20 is a unique verse in the book of Psalms, serving as a concluding statement rather than part of a prayer. It stands out because it provides a sense of finality, almost like a signature at the end of a letter. This verse shifts the focus from the content of the prayer to the identity of the one who prayed. By identifying David as the “son of Jesse,” it emphasizes David’s humility and origins. The phrase “this concludes” serves as a literary marker, bringing the collection of David’s prayers to a close and giving readers a moment to pause and reflect on the prayers they have just read.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
Several verses in the Bible speak to the significance of David’s prayers and his relationship with God:
- 1 Samuel 13:14: “The Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him ruler of his people.” This describes David’s heart for God, which is evident in his prayers.
- Acts 13:22: “I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.” This New Testament reference reaffirms David’s special relationship with God.
- 2 Samuel 7:18: “Then King David went in and sat before the Lord, and he said: ‘Who am I, Sovereign Lord, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far?’” This verse captures David’s humility and gratitude before God.
These verses highlight David’s devotion and deep trust in God, which are reflected throughout the prayers in the book of Psalms.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 72:20 is a reminder of the power and importance of a life filled with prayer. David’s prayers show us that we can bring every aspect of our lives before God—our joys, our fears, our failures, and our hopes. This verse invites us to think about our own prayer lives and the legacy of faith we are building. Just as David’s prayers have been preserved for generations, our prayers and our relationship with God leave a mark on the lives of those around us. This verse encourages us to cultivate a life of prayer that reflects our trust and dependence on God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Psalm 72:20 reveals God’s love and patience in allowing David’s prayers to be recorded and preserved for future generations. God didn’t just listen to David’s prayers; He cherished them, capturing them in Scripture for others to read and be inspired by. This verse shows us that God values our prayers and invites us to approach Him with every part of our lives. It reflects a God who loves to hear from His people, who cares about their deepest concerns, and who answers them in love. God’s love is seen in His willingness to draw close to His people through their prayers.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Psalm 72:20 reminds us of the prayers of Jesus, the “Son of David” who also prayed to His Father with deep reverence and trust. Just as David’s prayers covered every part of his life, Jesus’s prayers were woven throughout His earthly ministry, from His prayer in Gethsemane to His cries on the cross. Jesus’s prayers reflect a perfect relationship with God, showing us the ultimate example of dependence on the Father. Through Jesus, we are invited into a close relationship with God, where we can bring all of our lives before Him in prayer. Hebrews 5:7 speaks of Jesus’s prayers, saying, “During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.”
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Psalm 72:20 encourage us to view the role of prayer in our own lives?
- In what ways can we develop a closer relationship with God through prayer, like David did?
- How do David’s prayers inspire us to bring our whole selves before God, not just our requests?
- What does this verse reveal about God’s care and love for His people’s prayers?
- How does Jesus’s example of prayer fulfill the life of prayer seen in David’s relationship with God?
Psalm 72:20 serves as a beautiful reminder of the importance of a life grounded in prayer, inviting us to connect deeply with God just as David did. It encourages us to bring every part of our lives before God, trusting that He listens and cares. As we follow the example of both David and Jesus, we are reminded that our relationship with God is built on honesty, devotion, and faith, leading us to experience His presence and guidance in every season of life.