The Israelites believed that Yahweh was their king-–in Hebrew, Melek. He was the ultimate authority over Israel and every nation on earth. He reigned in power and majesty. They believed the temple in Jerusalem was the earthly symbol of God’s heavenly throne. God was their Melek; they were his servants.

Psalm 72:1-4
Give the king your justice, O God, and your righteousness to the royal son! May he judge your people with righteousness, and your poor with justice! Let the mountains bear prosperity for the people, and the hills, in righteousness! May he defend the cause of the poor of the people, give deliverance to the children of the needy, and crush the oppressor!

The prophet Zechariah explained that Yahweh would “be king over all the earth” (Zechariah 14:9). Isaiah prophesied that the king’s government would be an eternal one (Isaiah 9:7). Often Jesus spoke about the kingdom of heaven (e.g., Matthew 13:24-30).  In the book of Revelation, Jesus has this written on his robe and his thigh: “King of kings and Lord of lords” (Revelation 19:16).

Earthly rulers are of flesh and blood. Each is less-than-perfect. But our God is our King. He speaks, and we listen. He leads, and we follow. He is the One who sits enthroned, and we bow down. There is no one above or beside him. Live today worshiping the King!

Lord,
I bow before you today. I will listen, follow, and worship you. I desire to go where you are leading. You are my King. In Jesus’ name. Amen.