Devotional: Trust in God Psalm 20

“Some boast in chariots and some in horses, But we will boast in the name of the LORD, our God” (Ps. 20:7, NASB).

The world today is experiencing crisis in ways that the people living today have never witnessed before. These days are described by many as “uncertain times.” People are lost, and they are searching for answers to the problems that they face every day. The coronavirus COVID-19 is causing death not only in the United States, but in almost every country in the world. There is unrest because people want an end to unjust practices by the powerful to take advantage over the weak. In America, we are less than four months before we vote for the next president of our country. The many problems that we face are often politicized to find fault in those that run our government. People are expressing hope based on the belief that real solutions to our problems start with real leadership at the head of our government first and leadership in the many and various institutions in our nation. We want to know who we can trust. Who is able to offer us security?

Psalm 20 is believed to have been written by David, king in Israel. In this Psalm David prays that Israel will be victorious over their enemies. In David’s day people put their trust in their military might. They boast about the number of chariots and horses that they possess. They take pride in the abilities of their military. In this prayer David takes a different perspective of war. David believes that regardless of chariots and horses, his victory is certain because his trust in the Lord. Regardless of the number of chariots and horses that he possesses certain victory comes from the Lord. God is our refuge.

I cannot be secure because of what I possess. I cannot find refuge in government leaders; not even leaders in religion, education, and health experts. Although all of these things may offer the possibility of security, I will not trust in these remedies that are only temporary. Instead, I trust in the Lord. He is my refuge today and forever.

Prayer: Lord God, I am thankful that I can trust in you for my hope and security. Amen.