So much of the Bible seems to most as information that exists “out there” in the expanse of the cosmos. The important part of study, after understanding the nature and character of God and His Kingdom, is bringing that knowledge close to heart. Psalm 110 helps us do just that.
It brings the promise of kingship near to each of us. This passage isn’t only about a distant throne, it presses us to answer a vital question: “What do we do with a King who has been given the place highest honor?”

This Psalm is notably looking forward to the coming Messiah and His authoritative role amongst creation. The language used isn’t that of someone grasping for control or scrambling for it, it’s authority received from God as He says “sit at my right hand.”
 
How does this impact us and our relationship with Him? Truly, not many of us would overtly attempt to overthrow the rule of God (Jesus) in obvious, defiant ways. However, our hearts still often resist being ruled in small and subtle ways. Prefer a King who comforts but doesn’t command, a King who forgives but doesn’t ask us to reorder our loves or desires. We like a King who supports and aids our plans but doesn’t challenge the plans themselves.
 
Many Christians today think of God as a magic gumball machine poised at the ready to do our bidding if we only ask and say all the right magical combinations of words, but Psalm 110 refuses to allow us to reduce Him to a parlor trick. He rules with His enemies beneath His feet. His scepter extends from Zion and His reign moves outward until all opposition is dealt with properly.
 
Our earthly hearts must learn how to receive a King with such absolute authority.
He doesn’t draw us to cold submission to raw unchecked power. He beckons us to surrender to the One God has exalted, Jesus. There is relief knowing our lives are not finally held together by our own efforts and control, but by One who in fact can accomplish it. His reign isn’t fragile, and we’re all the better for it.
 
So, as usual on Day 3, the invitation is inward. Let the promise of His throne, its power and longevity search those places in your soul which still resist His rule. Let His authority become your peace and shelter. His reign is not a threat, it’s good news not only for you and me, but for the world!

Where do you find yourself wanting comfort from God without surrendering full control to Him? How can you train your heart today to see His authority and rule as peace instead of a threat?

Lord, reveal in me, in the deep places I don’t like to talk about at parties, where I’m actively resisting your rule and reign. Teach me to trust your power and authority as good, faithful, and full of mercy. May your reign bring peace to the parts of me that still want control. Amen.