Psalm 24: Who Is This King Of Glory?

The author of Psalm 24 is David.  In this psalm it is made known that everything belongs to God - the glorious eternal King. Let us worship him and welcome his glorious reign.

 

"The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters." ~ Psalm 24:1

 

Tradition says that this psalm was sung on the first day of each week in the temple services.  Because "the earth is the Lord's" all of us are stewards, or caretakers. We should be committed to the proper management of this world and its resources, but we are not to become devoted to anything created or act as sole proprietors because this world will pass away.

 

"He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false" ~ Psalm 24:4

 

Swearing by what is false means telling lies under oath.  How greatly God values honesty! Dishonesty comes easily, especially when complete truthfulness could cost us something, make us uncomfortable, or put us in an unfavorable light.  Dishonest communication hinders relationships.  Without honesty, a relationship with God is impossible. If we lie to others, we will begin to deceive ourselves.  God cannot hear us or speak to us if we are building a wall of self - deception.

 

"Lift up your heads, O you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is he, this King of glory? The Lord Almighty -- he is the King of glory."

~ Psalm 24:7-10

 

This psalm, often set to music, was probably used in corporate worship.  Who is this King of glory? The King of glory, identified also as the Lord of hosts or the commander of heaven's armies, is the Messiah himself, eternal, holy and mighty!