This Psalm is about the wedding between the Lord Jesus and His Bride, the church. It reads a little like the reporting of a royal news correspondent who takes in the dress of both Bride and Groom, and notes the arrangements that have been made for the event. It is addressed to the king, and clearly was the cause of great joy for the writer. Royal weddings are always happy events, full of pomp, ceremony and symbolism, and watched by many adoring well-wishers. The wedding described here is no different in that regard, but in view of who the Groom is, and how the Bride was won by the Groom, it surpasses all earthly weddings by far - it is not just “a” royal wedding - it is “THE” Royal Wedding - the one to be seen at! Let’s take a closer look at the Groom and the Bride.
The Groom is the most handsome of men. When he was on earth, there was nothing remarkable in the outward appearance of the Royal Prince, but when this wedding occurs, His true majesty will shine forth. Real beauty is an inward thing, too, and the writer observes that grace is poured upon His lips (His Word is gracious and loving) and He is therefore blessed forever by God (v 2).
He is also a mighty warrior, Who rides out in splendor, wielding His sword (the Word again) and through His victory, bringing about truth, meekness and righteousness. He subdues all the enemies of the king (v 3-5).
At this point, the divine nature of this Groom is revealed, as God the Father speaks to Him in verses 6-7 (see Hebrews 1:8-9). He calls Him, “God,” and confirms His everlasting reign, founded on uprightness. Because the Son loved righteousness and hated wickedness, God anointed Him with the oil of gladness (a symbol of the Spirit) more than any other.
Everything about the Groom’s clothing and the arrangements of His court is attractive and magnificent. The Queen herself (the church) is described as being clothed in fine gold, speaking of purity and of the glory of Christ’s righteousness which adorns her (v 8-9).
She now becomes the center of the writer’s attention. She is addressed by God as “daughter” and is counseled to forget her father’s house, where she came from (which must be a reference at least to this world or even to the Devil, whose children we were by nature), since the Groom desires her beauty (leaving and cleaving). She must also submit to His Lordship. (v 10-11). Her favor will also be sought as part of the Royal family of heaven. She is described again as all-glorious, and her robes (Christ’s righteousness) are again a point of particular note as she is led into the palace and to the King with great joy and gladness.
Finally, there is a note about the everlasting succession of the children of this marriage - all of the sons shall be made princes, and the name of the Groom shall be remembered through all generations.
There are many, many symbols and allusions in this Psalm, and we need to be careful not to press them further than we should. However, even these few notes above should warm our hearts as we meditate on our wonderful Groom, His beauty, glory and majesty, His might and His power! And then we look at ourselves - the Bride. I am always amazed to read that the King desires her beauty! But of course, it is beauty that He furnished her with, since He has purified her and provided her with her breathtaking garments!
It’s good to think about these things, because this is your future wedding if you are a believer - and you won't just be seen at it - you'll be the Bride! And this is your Groom, and this is the joy and gladness that is yours in measure now but which will find its fullness when the current state of betrothal ends and the marriage is consummated!
These thoughts help us to lift our eyes up above and beyond our current circumstances (over which He is fully in control) and to see the glory and splendor of all that He has prepared for us as His Bride. Spend some time admiring your Bridegroom and all the spectacular details of your approaching wedding and let these thoughts warm your hearts!
