What does Psalm 20:7 mean?

Psalm 20:7 is a verse that reads, "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God." This verse is part of a larger psalm, which is a prayer for the king of Israel, likely King David, as he prepares for battle. To fully understand the meaning of this verse, it is essential to consider its context within the psalm, the historical background, and its theological implications.

Psalm 20 is a royal psalm, often referred to as a psalm of David. It is structured as a communal prayer for the king's success in battle. The people of Israel are asking for God's blessing and protection over their king as he leads them into conflict. The psalm begins with a series of petitions for God's favor and assistance:

"May the Lord answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you. May he send you help from the sanctuary and grant you support from Zion. May he remember all your sacrifices and accept your burnt offerings." (Psalm 20:1-3, NIV)

As the psalm progresses, the people express their confidence in God's power and their hope for the king's victory, culminating in the declaration of trust found in verse 7.

The phrase "Some trust in chariots and some in horses" refers to the military might and technological advancements of the ancient world. Chariots and horses were symbols of strength and power in warfare, representing the pinnacle of military technology at that time. Nations that possessed large numbers of chariots and horses were often seen as formidable and nearly invincible. The Israelites, however, were not known for their reliance on such military hardware. Instead, their strength and confidence were rooted in their relationship with God.

The second part of the verse, "but we trust in the name of the Lord our God," highlights the contrast between the reliance on human power and the reliance on divine power. The "name of the Lord" is a powerful concept in the Hebrew Bible. It signifies God's character, authority, and presence. Trusting in the name of the Lord means placing one's faith in God's ability to save, protect, and provide, rather than in human means of security and success.

This verse echoes a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament: the call to trust in God rather than in human strength or resources. For example, in Deuteronomy 20:1, Moses instructs the Israelites:

"When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the Lord your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you."

Similarly, in Isaiah 31:1, the prophet warns against relying on Egypt's military power:

"Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the multitude of their chariots and in the great strength of their horsemen, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel, or seek help from the Lord."

Psalm 20:7, therefore, serves as a reminder that true security and victory come from God, not from human efforts or resources. It reflects the biblical principle that faith in God is the foundation of true strength and success.

In a broader theological context, this verse speaks to the nature of faith and trust in God. It challenges believers to examine where they place their confidence and to recognize the limitations of human power. In times of crisis or uncertainty, it is tempting to rely on tangible, visible sources of security, such as wealth, technology, or political alliances. However, Psalm 20:7 calls believers to look beyond these and to trust in the unseen, yet all-powerful, God.

The New Testament echoes this call to trust in God rather than in worldly means. In 2 Corinthians 10:3-4, the Apostle Paul writes:

"For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds."

Paul's words remind Christians that their ultimate source of strength and victory lies in God's power, not in human methods or resources.

In practical terms, Psalm 20:7 encourages believers to cultivate a deep and abiding trust in God. This trust is not passive but active, involving prayer, obedience, and reliance on God's promises. It means seeking God's guidance and strength in every aspect of life, from personal challenges to broader societal issues.

Moreover, this verse offers a message of hope and assurance. It reassures believers that, regardless of the apparent strength of their adversaries or the magnitude of their challenges, God is greater and more powerful. Trusting in God brings a sense of peace and confidence that transcends circumstances.

In conclusion, Psalm 20:7 is a profound declaration of faith that contrasts human reliance on military power with trust in God's divine power. It calls believers to place their confidence in God's character, authority, and presence, rather than in human means of security and success. This verse challenges us to examine where we place our trust and encourages us to cultivate a deep and abiding faith in God, who is the ultimate source of strength and victory.