Trust Beyond Chariots

In the ancient world, going to war was a matter of national survival. As a king led his army into battle, his people would pray—not just for victory, but for the very future of their nation. A lost battle could mean the end of the kingdom, the death of the king, and exile for the survivors.

Psalms 20 and 21 are set in this dramatic context. Psalm 20 is a prayer before the battle begins, and Psalm 21 celebrates the king’s victorious return. The two psalms are like two chapters of one story—pleading for help and praising God for delivering it.

In Psalm 20:1–5, the people do not hope in military strength or the king’s skill. Instead, they ask God to intervene. Seven times in five verses, they repeat, “May the LORD…” Their hope is in God's favour—not their might.

This was no empty sentiment. Israel’s history had shown them how outmatched they often were. When other nations boasted chariots and horses, Israel had none. During the Bronze Age, the Canaanites had fortified cities and war horses, while Israel had neither. In the Iron Age, the Philistines had swords and spears—but Israel had only two swords, owned by Saul and his son Jonathan. Even centuries later, King Hezekiah had to buy war equipment from Egypt to defend against Assyria.

But despite this technological disadvantage, Israel had something greater: unwavering trust in God. That is why they could say with conviction, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.”

History proved them right. The Lord had collapsed the walls of Jericho without a single arrow. He had empowered David to defeat Goliath with just a sling and a stone. And in Psalm 21, we see that He did it again.

So, when we face overwhelming challenges—when defeat seems inevitable or resources are scarce—our confidence does not rest in our strength. It rests in the God who has repeatedly made history for His people.

Trust in Him. He is still the God who makes the weak stand while the mighty fall.

ACT ON IT

Let this history of faith inspire you today. As you face your personal, professional, or spiritual battles, anchor your trust in the God who has repeatedly shown His power. Choose not to lean on your strength but to seek His favour and guidance. Pray boldly like the people in Psalm 20 and celebrate His victories like in Psalm 21. Trust in Him, for He still makes the impossible possible.