Psalms 110:7
He shall drink of the brook in the way: therefore shall he lift up the head.
Psalms 110:7
Verse 7 shifts to a brief, emblematic image: “He shall drink of the brook in the way: therefore shall he lift up the head.” Many commentators interpret this as a moment of weary laboring in the midst of the march to victory, where before the final triumph the king-savior refreshes himself at a watercourse on the way. It also can symbolize spiritual nourishment and perseverance; drinking at the brook signifies sustenance during the journey to accomplish God’s mission. The act of lifting up the head after drinking signals renewed strength, focus, and readiness for the next step of leadership and victory. In the psalm’s overall arc, this verse serves as a reminder that even mighty deliverers experience moments of weariness and need for refreshment. It points to God as the source of strength, who sustains his covenant people through every season.
The verse deepens our understanding of spiritual resilience. The Messiah’s journey involves endurance—physical and spiritual—and God provides refreshment at critical moments. It foreshadows Jesus’ own experience of weariness in ministry and his encouragement to come to him for rest (Matthew 11:28–30). The imagery also reflects the biblical pattern that after struggles, God renews strength, enabling faithful witness. Thematically, lifting the head resonates with hope, confidence, and forward-looking faith in God’s promises, even when circumstances are challenging.
Practical takeaway: when you’re worn out pursuing what’s right, seek nourishment and rest from God. Build rhythms of spiritual refreshment—scripture, prayer, community—so you can continue serving with clarity and courage. In leadership roles, acknowledge fatigue openly and invite support; leadership is often a journey with detours, but God sustains. In daily life, “drink from the brook” might mean taking a lunch-hour pause to breathe and recalibrate, taking a walk, or praying during a busy day. The verse encourages you to remain steadfast, trusting that renewed energy will come for the next challenge or opportunity to bless others. Let the image of lifting your head in hope shape your posture when facing obstacles: God is with you, sustaining you for the tasks ahead.
Cross-References: Isaiah 40:31; Matthew 11:28–30; Psalm 23:5; Isaiah 50:4; Psalm 68:19