The Lodestar

Psalm 21 thanks the Lord for answering the prayer for victory that the people prayed in Psalm 20 as the king set out for the battle. The people confessed that it was not their military strength but the Lord’s might that made their army win the war. Now, the king and the military have come back victorious.

The first part of the Psalm (verses 1—7) elaborates on what the Lord has done for the king, while the second part (verses 8—12) expresses their hope for a future free from threats from enemies. In the last verse, they praise the Lord for his strength and mercy in preserving them. “Be exalted, O LORD, in your strength! We will sing and praise your power” (Psa 21:13).

Ancient Israel was a tiny nation among powerful and more prominent nations. They had never been an empire except during the period of David, who had subdued some smaller countries. Still, that is enough to make an empire. They were bullied by the small nations and raiders and were controlled by powerful nations such as Assyria, Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome. They had to keep alive throughout history, resisting the forces that demanded their life.

An overview of Biblical history teaches that the Lord protected them against their mighty enemies when they trusted him, but had to give them up when they failed to acknowledge him and sought his protection.

Psalms 20 and 21 teach us an essential truth about our life with the Lord. Trusting in our strength alone is the recipe for failure since we never have the strength to protect ourselves. On the contrary, acknowledging the power of God and being dependent on him is the way to victory.

Trust in God’s power, not your own, as the source of victory in all your battles. Celebrate the victories he grants, knowing it is his strength that sustains you. Commit to acknowledging God’s might daily, relying on him for protection against life’s challenges. Praise him for his faithfulness, and hold on to the hope that no enemy can overcome those who trust in the Lord. Today, choose to put your confidence fully in God and share this truth with someone who needs encouragement to do the same.

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