Recap: The whole nation is suffering, presumably as a punishment for its sins. However, the Psalmist, who feels innocent, is perplexed by his personal suffering. This particular psalm is unique because it seeks a reason for the nation's disaster that goes beyond their own guilt. The Psalmist finds an answer, declaring: "We are being killed for your sake," which suggests their distress is part of a larger, worldwide battle against God and his chosen King. The New Testament later uses this concept to explain why the Church is persecuted, asserting that it ultimately will be victorious.
| 44: | 4 | You are my King, O God; |
| Command victories for Jacob. |
A citizen of kingdom will look to his king for victories against enemies. A noble king will protect his citizen from enemies. Here, the Psalmist is looking to the God who is his king. Lord God is the commander-in-chief of Jacob. Jacob is referring to the 12 tribes of Israel originated from the patriarch Jacob. He is the one that commands brings victories for the army of the nation of Israel. This prayer is true today, not primarily in physical sense, by in a spiritual sense, our enemies are the forces of darkness and the sinful nature that is in us.
Prayer: Father, I acknowledge You as my King to whom belong my ultimate loyalty. Lord, command victories to me, for my strength is feeble and the enemies are too strong and shrewd for me. Amen
Recap: The whole nation is suffering, presumably as a punishment for its sins. However, the Psalmist, who feels innocent, is perplexed by his personal suffering. This particular psalm is unique because it seeks a reason for the nation's disaster that goes beyond their own guilt. The Psalmist finds an answer, declaring: "We are being killed for your sake," which suggests their distress is part of a larger, worldwide battle against God and his chosen King. The New Testament later uses this concept to explain why the Church is persecuted, asserting that it ultimately will be victorious.
| 44: | 5 | Through You we will push down our enemies; |
| Through Your name we will | ||
| trample those who rise up against us. |
The Psalmist's unwavering confidence stems from his belief that God is his strength. Although many enemies may rise against him, his total dependence on God remains his virtue and his assurance.
| 44: | 6 | For I will not trust in my bow, |
| Nor shall my sword save me. |
The Psalmist is not saying that he would not use a bow or a sword, but his confidence is not placed in them. It is important that one has a bow and sword while going to battle. However, the effective use of these weapons depends on the inner guidance coming from the Lord when one trusts God.
| 44:7 | But You have saved us from our enemies, | |
| And have put to shame those who hated us. |
The Psalmist is acknowledging God for the victory gained over his enemies. Not only did he achieve victory, but it was so decisive that his enemies were ashamed. This is the result for one who trusts in the Lord.
| 44:8 | In God we boast all day long, | |
| And praise Your name forever. Selah |
Therefore, the Psalmist can boast, not in his own ability, but in the power of God. This is not a momentary truth; rather, it is a truth for all future generations to follow.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank you for the victory You provide when we place our trust in You. Lord, I ask for Your help to continue to trust in You completely, so that I may fully experience Your deliverance and the victory You have planned for me. Amen.