Psalms 110:5

The Lord at thy right hand shall strike through kings in the day of his wrath.

Psalms 110:5 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 110 is a royal psalm attributed to David. It is a Messianic psalm, quoted several times in the New Testament. The psalm presents a future king who sits at God’s right hand and rules with authority. Verse 5 focuses on that king’s power to execute judgment.

Meaning

“The Lord” here is Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. The “right hand” is a position of power, honour, and divine assistance. The verse says the Lord is at the right hand of the king, ready to help and to act. “Strike through kings” means God will defeat powerful rulers who oppose Him and His purposes. This is not random violence but divine judgment. The “day of His wrath” is a coming time when God will punish the wicked and establish His righteous rule. It is a day of reckoning and justice.

Biblical connections

Psalm 110:5 connects to the New Testament teaching about Jesus Christ. Hebrews 1:13 applies the psalm’s language to Christ, showing His exalted position at God’s right hand and His authority to make His enemies a footstool. This confirms that Jesus is the king who will carry out God’s final judgment. The right hand imagery also appears in Psalm 109:31, where the Lord stands at the needy person’s right hand to save him from those who condemn him. Here, the same position assures believers of God’s active help.

Application

This verse reminds us that God’s sovereignty extends over all rulers. No earthly power is beyond His reach. It assures us that even the most powerful people are subject to God’s judgment. It also points to a future day when God will bring justice and vindicate His people. Believers can trust God’s timing, even when wickedness seems to prevail. The verse warns against opposing God and His anointed, for such opposition will be crushed. It calls us to align with God’s purposes and live in reverence of His power.

Reflection

God’s wrath is not arbitrary. It is directed against sin and rebellion, and it is executed in righteousness. This truth provides comfort and hope. We can live faithfully, knowing that the Lord is at our right hand to help and deliver us. The ultimate victory belongs to Christ, who will defeat all enemies and establish His righteous rule forever.