Thursday · 2026-08-27

I checked both RSC (rsc.byu.edu) and The Joseph Smith Papers (josephsmithpapers.org) for materials specifically on Psalms 69–72, distress, or the Messianic King, and found an article from the BYU Religious Studies Center that provides excellent context for understanding the Messianic nature of some of the Psalms, including Psalm 72.

In an article titled "The Eternal King: The Messiah as King in the Psalms" by Dana M. Pike, the author discusses how many Psalms, beyond those explicitly labeled "royal" Psalms, contain prophecies and descriptions that point to a future righteous king—the Messiah. Pike explains that these Psalms often use language that describes both an earthly king and an idealized, perfect king who will reign eternally in righteousness and peace, bringing deliverance to the poor and needy. Psalm 72, in particular, is highlighted as a prime example of a Messianic Psalm, describing a king whose dominion will be from sea to sea, who will endure forever, and who will be blessed by all nations, illustrating a reign far beyond any mortal monarch.
URL: https://rsc.byu.edu/book/ascending-mountain-lord/eternal-king-messiah-king-psalms

1. How does understanding the dual nature of some of these Psalms, referring to both an earthly king and the future Messiah, deepen our appreciation for the spiritual messages they convey about God's plan and promises?

As you seek to actively express gratitude for God's blessings and interventions today, how might recognizing the prophetic anticipation of the Messiah's perfect reign in Psalms 69–72 influence your prayers of thanksgiving, knowing that His sovereign hand ultimately guides all things towards that glorious future?

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Psalms 69–72

Today's reading continues to explore themes of profound distress, urgent pleas for divine intervention, and the hopeful anticipation of a righteous King.

• Psalms 69–71: These psalms largely articulate the cries of individuals suffering greatly—from enemies, false accusations, and overwhelming affliction. The psalmist expresses deep sorrow, even feeling "sunk in deep mire" (Psalm 69:2). Yet, amidst these fervent requests for deliverance and vindication, there is an unwavering trust in God's mercy and justice. The psalmist appeals to God's "lovingkindness" and "tender mercies," believing that He will ultimately hear and save. Psalm 71 specifically mentions a reliance on God "from my youth" and a desire to declare His strength and righteousness "all the day long." This demonstrates a lifelong pattern of seeking refuge in the Lord during times of trouble.
• Psalm 72: This psalm shifts from personal lament to a magnificent vision of a righteous king. It is often understood as a Messianic psalm, describing a ruler who will govern with justice, defend the poor, and bring an era of peace and prosperity. The king's reign will be vast, from "sea to sea," and enduring, "as long as the sun and moon endure." All nations will bless him, and his name "shall endure for ever." This psalm beautifully portrays the ideal reign of the Messiah, characterized by righteousness, compassion for the afflicted, and universal dominion, offering a powerful hope for future deliverance and divine order.

These chapters remind us that even in our deepest valleys of distress, we can turn to the Lord with fervent prayer, trusting in His mercy and His ultimate plan of salvation and righteousness through His Anointed One.

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Scripture References:

• Psalm 69:2: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/ot/ps/69?lang=eng#2
• Psalm 71: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/ot/ps/71?lang=eng
• Psalm 69: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/ot/ps/69?lang=eng
• Psalm 72: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/ot/ps/72?lang=eng