The next song of ascents, Psalm 132 is a pilgrim prayer asking God to keep His promises â His covenant â that He made with David. It makes specific reference to our recent studies in 2 Samuel 6 and 7. For this reason, many believe Psalm 132 may have been written by Jews returning from the Babylonian exile and praying that their God might restore Jerusalem and the temple worship to its former promise and glory. The writer reminds the LORD of Davidâs intense desire to build: 1) a temple for YHWH â the Mighty One of Jacob (verses 1-5 and 2 Samuel 7); 2) a resting place for the ark of God (verses 6-8 and 2 Samuel 6); and, 3) a righteous priesthood (verse 9 and 1 Chron. 15).
Verses 10-12 are an appeal to Godâs covenant with David to establish his descendants on Israelâs throne forever (2 Sam. 7).
   The LORD has sworn to David, a truth from which He will not turn back; of the fruit of your body I will set upon your throne (v. 11).
The last stanza of the song (verses 13-18) is a reminder that YHWH chose Zion-Jerusalem to be His dwelling place (verse 14), of His promise of blessing upon His people (verse 15), and even the promise of Messiah (v. 17).
God has given us, the redeemed in Christ Jesus, promises in His word. Let me encourage us to follow the psalmist and make those promises of God a part of our calling out to Him. For example, if you are feeling far from God today, read Romans 8:35-39 and turn it into a prayer to the Lord God who hears.
Yours and His,
Ed Smith