What Are You Leaning On?
If you were going to war in ancient times, the ultimate military advantage was a fleet of chariots and well-trained horses. They represented power, wealth, and security. If you had them, you felt invincible. If you didn’t, you felt incredibly vulnerable.
In Psalm 20, David looks past the military machinery of his day and makes a bold declaration that still challenges us centuries later: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7).
Our modern “chariots and horses” might look like a healthy retirement account, a secure job title, a flawless reputation, or a meticulously planned routine. None of those things are inherently bad, but they make terrible foundations for our security. When the unexpected happens, those things can falter. But the name of the Lord—His character, His track record, and His covenant love—stands firm forever.
The Power of Shared Prayer
Something easy to miss in Psalm 20 is that it’s written in the plural. It’s a community praying for their leader and for each other before heading into a difficult season. “May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble! May the name of the God of Jacob protect you!” (Psalm 20:1).
This is a beautiful picture of what the church should look like. We aren’t meant to fight our battles in isolation. When you are going through a “day of trouble,” you need a community around you to lift up your hands, intercede on your behalf, and remind you of who God is when you are too tired to remember it yourself.
Celebrating the Deliverance
Moving right into Psalm 21, the tone shifts from asking for help to celebrating the answer. “O Lord, in your strength the king rejoices, and in your salvation how greatly he exults!” (Psalm 21:1).
When God shows up and answers our prayers, we shouldn’t just quietly move on to the next problem on our list. We need to take time to throw a party, share our testimonies, and give Him credit. When we celebrate God’s faithfulness out loud, it builds the faith of everyone around us who might still be waiting for their own breakthrough.
Lord,
Forgive me for the times I put my ultimate trust in my own plans, my bank account, or my abilities. I want to shift my weight onto your Name today. Thank you for the community you’ve placed around me. Help me to be someone who prays faithfully for others and celebrates your goodness loudly when the answers come.
Amen.
Who is facing a “day of trouble” in your circle right now? Reach out to them today, ask how you can specifically pray for them, and remind them that at ONE Church, No ONE Walks Alone.
