Trust in God

Psalm 20
A psalm of David.
1 May the LORD answer you when you are in distress;
may the name of the God of Jacob protect you.
2 May he send you help from the sanctuary
and grant you support from Zion.

3 May he remember all your sacrifices
and accept your burnt offerings.
Selah

4 May he give you the desire of your heart
and make all your plans succeed.

5 We will shout for joy when you are victorious
and will lift up our banners in the name of our God.
May the LORD grant all your requests.

6 Now I know that the LORD saves his anointed;
he answers him from his holy heaven
with the saving power of his right hand.

7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.

8 They are brought to their knees and fall,
but we rise up and stand firm.

9 O LORD, save the king!
Answer [a] us when we call!

This psalm is a prayer written by David, probably for use by all of Israel to pray for David himself and his army when they went into battle. This may seem presumptuous: David writes a prayer for others to pray, concerning himself. But rather than presumptuous, I think it shows the value that David placed on prayer. David knew that prayer was his best weapon when he went into battle. And so, David gave the people of Israel who stayed behind a prayer to pray. Through the important work of prayer, even those staying behind could share in the victory.

This can be a model prayer for us to pray for our political leaders as they lead our nation in battles of various kinds, as well as our spiritual leaders as they lead us in the spiritual warfare in which we are engaged. Our leaders need our prayers. Even the greatest leaders (especially the greatest leaders!) are subject to physical and spiritual trouble.

Paul tells us: "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God" (Rom. 13:1). Moreover, God wants us to pray for our leaders, even even those we do not agree with: "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone--for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth" (I Tim. 2:1-4).

This prayer of David's is also an excellent prayer for any of us to use for all our brothers or sisters who are facing battles, trials, or affliction. I know that in my own life I am asked by family, friends, and neighbors to pray for them, especially in their times of trouble. We must never forget that God is walking with us on this journey of life. Ask for God's help for others and for yourself as you are faced with the difficulties of life. God hears and answers all prayers.

Peace and love,

Sue

"Be still and know that I am God"(Psalm 46:10)