Psalm 60
Psalm 60 is a prayer attributed to David, written after Israel suffered military setbacks, likely during his campaigns against Edom and other enemies. It reflects David’s deep trust in God despite setbacks. The psalm begins with lament over God's displeasure but moves into confidence that, through God's intervention, victory is assured. It teaches believers to turn to God in times of defeat, recognizing Him as the ultimate source of strength and salvation.
Psalm 60:1-3 (NKJV)
1 O God, You have cast us off;
You have broken us down;
You have been displeased;
Oh, restore us again!
2 You have made the earth tremble;
You have broken it;
Heal its breaches, for it is shaking.
3 You have shown Your people hard things;
You have made us drink the wine of confusion.
David expresses a sense of abandonment and defeat, feeling that God’s favor has been withdrawn. The imagery of a trembling earth and confusion reflects the nation's instability. These verses suggest that Israel’s difficulties are seen not merely as military challenges but as signs of divine displeasure, prompting David to seek restoration and healing from God.
Psalm 60:4-5 (NKJV)
4 You have given a banner to those who fear You,
That it may be displayed because of the truth. Selah
5 That Your beloved may be delivered,
Save with Your right hand, and hear me.
David acknowledges that even in difficulties, God has given a banner—a symbol of hope and identity to those who revere Him. The banner represents truth and loyalty to God. He pleads for deliverance, showing faith that God’s intervention through His "right hand" will secure victory and restoration for His people.
Psalm 60:6-8 (NKJV)
6 God has spoken in His holiness:
“I will rejoice;
I will divide Shechem
And measure out the Valley of Succoth.
7 Gilead is Mine, and Manasseh is Mine;
Ephraim also is the helmet for My head;
Judah is My lawgiver.
8 Moab is My washpot;
Over Edom I will cast My shoe;
Philistia, shout in triumph because of Me.”
These verses reflect God’s sovereign control over Israel’s territories and surrounding nations. God declares His authority over Shechem, Gilead, Manasseh, Ephraim, and Judah, symbolizing the unity and strength of His people. He also asserts dominance over Moab, Edom, and Philistia, indicating that these enemies will be humbled and subdued under His rule.
Psalm 60:9-10 (NKJV)
9 Who will bring me to the strong city?
Who will lead me to Edom?
10 Is it not You, O God, who cast us off?
And You, O God, who did not go out with our armies?
David acknowledges past defeats, where God seemingly withheld His assistance. He asks who will lead him to victory over the fortified city of Edom, expressing a renewed desire for God’s presence and guidance in future battles. This reflects both humility and dependence on God's intervention.
Psalm 60:11-12 (NKJV)
11 Give us help from trouble,
For the help of man is useless.
12 Through God we will do valiantly,
For it is He who shall tread down our enemies.
David concludes with a declaration of confidence in God. Human help is acknowledged as insufficient, but with God's aid, Israel will triumph. The psalm ends on a note of assurance, affirming that God will ultimately defeat their enemies and grant them victory. This encourages believers to trust fully in God, especially in times of trouble.