Psalms 110:7

He shall drink of the brook in the way: therefore shall he lift up the head.

Psalms 110:7 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 110 is a royal psalm that presents the Messiah as both priest and king. The psalm opens with the Lord inviting the Messiah to sit at His right hand until His enemies are made His footstool. The final verse closes this scene of conquest with a picture of refreshment and victory.

Meaning

The first part, “He shall drink of the brook in the way,” uses the image of a traveler stopping to drink from a stream. In ancient times, a brook provided needed water for a weary warrior. This suggests that the Messiah receives refreshment and strength during His mission. Some interpreters see a deeper meaning: the brook may represent the cup of suffering. The Kidron brook, which David crossed in distress (2 Samuel 15:23) and which Jesus crossed on the way to Gethsemane (John 18:1), points to suffering. Drinking from this brook can symbolize accepting the cup of suffering that the Father gives.

The second part, “therefore shall he lift up the head,” speaks of exaltation and triumph. To lift up the head means to be honored and victorious. In Psalm 27:6, the same phrase describes confident worship after deliverance. Here it shows the Messiah’s final victory. He bows His head in death on the cross, but He is raised and exalted to God’s right hand. The verse captures the pattern of humiliation followed by exaltation.

Biblical connections

Jesus Himself refers to Psalm 110 in Matthew 22:44, asking how the Messiah can be David’s son and Lord. Paul also cites it in 1 Corinthians 15:25, teaching that Christ will reign until all enemies are under His feet. These connections confirm that the psalm points to Jesus.

Application

For believers, this verse teaches that refreshment comes in the middle of the journey. God provides strength for the path He sets before us. It also reminds us that suffering is not the end. The same God who refreshes His servant will lift him up in due time. When we face trials, we can trust that God gives grace for the moment and will bring victory.

Reflection

Consider how the Messiah drank the brook of suffering and then was lifted up. His path from the cross to the throne gives hope. We do not walk alone; the One who conquered death walks with us. We can face each day with confidence, knowing that refreshment and exaltation belong to those who follow Him.