Our study of Psalm 20 continues. Today we notice the seventh verse. The whole Poem is gathered around the theme of prayer. In fact, the Chapter IS a prayer.
“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.” Psalm 20:7
The thought is most appropriate for a man who “fights.” Who is a warrior. As was King David of Israel. A man who was unusually blessed of God with victory after victory.
The man who needed God’s hand of Protection, hence the wish (the prayer) back in verse 1: “The LORD hear thee in the day of trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee.”
Today we learn the REAL source of David’s success.
And it is not his army!
The Hebrew noun used for “chariots” (spelled “rekeb”) can mean “wagons” as well. Tools of war, transporting supplies and ammunition. Chariots were also (the “tanks” of their day) particularly helpful weapons, when manned by a sword wielding fighter.
And “horses” (“sus” in Hebrew) were fast and fearless and extremely effective in sudden attacks! Sort of terrorizing an enemy!
And King David owned plenty of both, chariots and horses.
But such were not the “keys” to victory!
The verb “trust” is noticeably italicized in the Verse. It has no Hebrew equivalent in the Text. But the “context” demands it! This is a good illustration of the skill and wisdom of the King James translators.
Some armies attributed their prowess to their hardware, or software these days. To their machinery. To their equipment. BUT NOT THIS PSALMIST!
“We will remember the name of the Lord our God!”
Not the tools of war, not ONLY the tools of battle anyway!
The verb “remember” is “zakar” in Hebrew. It means “to call to mind.” Almost, “to keep on one’s mind!” To think about a subject! Actually 21 times in the Old Testament “to mention” something or someone again and again!
And God’s “Name?”
Yes, “shem” in Hebrew not only includes what an individual is called, his nomenclature. But his “reputation,” his “character,” his “essence” as well!
We will remember Who God is!
And what God does!
And everything else about Him we can learn too!
In other words, we will “lean” on the Lord!
“Trust” in God!
HE will be the center of our faith!
Not human abilities.
Wow!
“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.” Psalm 20:7
Don’t trust your money.
Don’t trust your abilities.
Don’t trust the “law of averages.”
TRUST THE LORD!
— Dr. Mike Bagwell