Trust in the Name of the LORD

Some trust in chariots and some in horses,

but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.

Psalm 20:7 (ESV)

You won't find many people these days that put their trust in chariots or horses. At the time that the Poet Warrior King David wrote these words chariots and horses were equivalent to armored vehicles and fighter jets. They were essential equipment to an ancient military. Usually the army with more chariots, horses, and manpower would win. To the relatively small nation of Israel, this could be a cause for alarm, but we see time and time again that God fought for Israel. As long as His people were faithful to Him, Israel was protected. David expresses his trust not in military might, but in God.

The first half of Psalm 20 (verses 1-5) reads as a blessing for the King as he prepares to lead his troops into battle. There are seven petitions brought before the Lord on behalf of the King:

• May He answer you in the day of trouble

• May He (the name of the God of Jacob) protect you

• May He send you help and give you support

• May He remember all of your offerings and regard your sacrifices with favor

• May He grant your heart's desire and fulfill your plans

• May we shout for joy at your salvation and hang banners in the name of our God

• May He fulfill your petitions

Two of these requests stand out as they invoke the name of God. The name of God, YHWH (translated LORD in the ESV), is also mentioned several times in this psalm. YHWH is the name God gave Himself at the burning bush when Moses asked what name he should give the Israelites when they asked who sent him. YHWH, "I AM WHO I AM," is God's response. He goes on to say that He is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He is the God who has made covenant with Israel, and this name is where the Israelites have placed their trust. They expect their King and army to return victorious so that they can celebrate and hang banners in honor of YHWH.

The second half of Psalm 20 (verses 6-9) contains the King David's response to the prayers of the people. He is assured that YHWH will answer from heaven and will save him with His powerful hand. David's trust, however, is not in military might but in God's name, YHWH. In fact, David draws a direct contrast between those who trust in horses and chariots versus those who trust God. "They" (who trust military might) will collapse and fall. "We" (who trust God) will rise and stand upright.

Where do you put your trust?

My battles don't involve military conquests, so I don't struggle with trusting in horses or chariots. My enemies are not flesh and blood, but ideas, doubts, and my own weakness. I sometimes put my trust in finances, health, friendships, or hard work. Sadly, at various times each of those seemingly solid foundations have caused me to collapse and fall. The bills exceeded the income. My body developed capricious weakness. Friends walked away. Skill and effort fell flat. In every struggle, God has never failed me. When I have turned to Him and called on His name, even in the darkest moments He has been with me. He has helped me rise and stand.

I don't know where you might be putting your trust today. With all of the uncertainty in the world I encourage you to put it squarely in the powerful hands of God. He is the only constant. He was, He is, He will be. Trust His name. Trust Him.

Some songs for your reflection:

Believe For It by CeCe Winans

No Other Name by Sandi Patty

Into the Sea by Tasha Layton