Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. Psalm 20:7
We live in a day of powerful weapons – nuclear submarines, laser beams, sophisticated computer technology, and deadly missiles. Raw force is pitted against raw force with boasts of superiority. We struggle to understand the meaning of the arms race and pray that the world will not be reduced to ruins. We feel personally powerless in the face of such military might.
The Psalmist recognizes the importance of chariots and horses, the dreaded war machines of that day. Both Israel and her enemies possess armies and weapons. However, he lauds Israel for trusting not in chariots and horses but “in the name of the LORD our God.” Conscious of the great Red Sea victory of Yahweh over Pharaoh’s chariots and horses, aware of the stunning victories of Joshua and Gideon over seemingly superior forces, thankful for God’s grace in his own life as commander and king, David relies on the powerful name of God, who will bring ultimate victory through the death and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ, the Suffering Servant. Nothing can stop the kingdom of God bringing grace and salvation to a world in desperate need.
Empowered by God’s forgiving love in Jesus Christ, we dare to speak His name to others in a world of mighty superpowers, knowing the Gospel will penetrate hungering hearts and the kingdom of God will continue to come with salvation.
PRAYER: Lord God, without Your help we are powerless. Through Your Son, Jesus Christ, we have the strength to overcome earthly powers and gain eternal salvation. Thank You, Lord. Amen.
(Devotions from "My Daily Devotion" by Dr. Stephen J. Carter, copyright 1988, CPH. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be printed, reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of Concordia Publishing House. For ordering information, please contact CPH at 800-325-3040 or visit www.cph.org.)
Today's Bible Readings: Genesis 20-22 Matthew 6:19-34
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