Psalms20

Psalm 20 is a prayer for the king in a time of trouble, seeking divine help, strength, and acceptance of his offerings. The people express confidence that the Lord will hear and save His anointed. They declare their trust in the name of the Lord their God, contrasting it with reliance on worldly power, and anticipate victory.
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A Prayer for the King’s Deliverance

1
To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The LORD hear thee in the day of trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee; ​
2
Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion;
3
Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice; Selah. ​
4
Grant thee according to thine own heart, and fulfil all thy counsel.
5
We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners: the LORD fulfil all thy petitions. ​

Declaration of Divine Confidence

6
Now know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand. ​

Trusting in the Name of the Lord

7
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. ​
8
They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.

Final Plea for Royal Salvation

9
Save, LORD: let the king hear us when we call.

Study Notes for Psalms 20

Verse 1

This psalm is a corporate prayer offered by the congregation for the Davidic king, likely before or during a major military campaign ('day of trouble'). The phrase 'the name of the God of Jacob' emphasizes God's personal covenant power and historical faithfulness to Israel.

Verse 3

The reference to sacrifices highlights the importance of proper worship and reconciliation before seeking God's intervention in crisis. For the request to be granted, the offerings must first be 'accepted' (literally, 'turn to ashes,' signifying divine consumption and approval).

Verse 5

'Salvation' (Heb. *yeshua*) primarily means military victory and deliverance in this context. Setting up 'banners' (standards/flags) signifies celebrating the victory achieved by the authority and power of God, not human strength.

Verse 6

This verse marks a shift from communal petition to firm assurance, perhaps spoken by the priest or the king himself. 'His anointed' (*mashiach*, Messiah) refers specifically to the reigning Davidic king, whose success is guaranteed because he is God's chosen representative.

Verse 7

This verse establishes a stark contrast between reliance on earthly military technology ('chariots' and 'horses') and reliance on the covenant relationship with God. The 'name of the LORD' encapsulates God's revealed character, power, and commitment to Israel.

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