Psalms 20:1-9 - Homilies By C. Short

Help from the sanctuary for the battle of life.

A liturgical psalm, which was sung on behalf of the king, who was about to go forth to battle. It was chanted in alternate voices by the congregation and the priest or Levite who led the choir. As the king stands within the sanctuary, offering his sacrifice, the crowd of worshippers in the spacious courts lift up their voices in the prayer of the first five verses; then the answering chant of the priest or leader from Psalms 20:6 to 8; then all join in the prayer of the ninth verse, "God save the king!" Help from the sanctuary for the battle of life. Influences to be gathered there.

I. A SENSE OF GOD 'S HELPFUL RELATIONS TO US . ( Psalms 20:1 , Psalms 20:2 .) He hears in trouble, defends us in danger, and strengthens us for conflict; and thus helps us by means of the worship of the sanctuary. It is thus he remembers our offerings and accepts our worship.

II. GOD GRANTS THE DESIRES AND FULFILS THE COUNSELS WHICH ARE INSPIRED IN HIS SERVICE . ( Psalms 20:4 .) "If we ask anything according to his will, we know that he heareth us."

III. WE CAN WIN THE BATTLE ONLY SO FAR AS WE REALIZE THAT IT IS GOD 'S BATTLE ..( Psalms 20:5 .) "In the Name of our God must we set up our banners." He is the Captain of our salvation, and if we are loyal to him we shall rejoice in a victorious cause.

IV. TRUE FAITH IN GOD IS ASSURED OF VICTORY BEFORE THE BATTLE IS FOUGHT . ( Psalms 20:6 .) "I know whom I have believed, and … that he is able to keep that," etc.; "Thanks be unto God, who giveth us the victory!" "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?"

V. " RIGHT IS MIGHT " TO ALL WHO HAVE BEEN TAUGHT OF GOD . ( Psalms 20:7 , Psalms 20:8 .) They do not trust in material strength, but in the justice of their cause, i.e. in the power of God, and not in chariots and horses. God, therefore, is not, in any historical war, on the side of the strongest battalions. "They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright."

VI. THE PERSISTENT AND FINAL CRY OF THE TRUE WORSHIPPER IS FOB THE SALVATION OF GOD . ( Psalms 20:9 .)—S.