TRV
Translation
American Standard Version
O house of Aaron, trust ye in Jehovah: He is their help and their shield.
World English Bible Messianic
House of Aaron, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield.
Geneva Bible (1599)
O house of Aaron, trust ye in the Lord: for he is their helpe and their shielde.
Young's Literal Translation
O house of Aaron, trust in Jehovah, `Their help and their shield is He.'
In the KJVVerse 15,841 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on Psalms 115 verses 9–18
9 ¶ O Israel, trust thou in the LORD: he is their help and their shield.
10 O house of Aaron, trust in the LORD: he is their help and their shield.
11 Ye that fear the LORD, trust in the LORD: he is their help and their shield.
12 The LORD hath been mindful of us: he will bless us; he will bless the house of Israel; he will bless the house of Aaron.
13 He will bless them that fear the LORD, both small and great.
14 The LORD shall increase you more and more, you and your children.
15 Ye are blessed of the LORD which made heaven and earth.
16 The heaven, even the heavens, are the LORD'S: but the earth hath he given to the children of men.
17 The dead praise not the LORD, neither any that go down into silence.
18 But we will bless the LORD from this time forth and for evermore. Praise the LORD.
In these verses,
I. We are earnestly exhorted, all of us, to repose our confidence in God, and not suffer our confidence in him to be shaken by the heathens' insulting over us upon the account of our present distresses. It is folly to trust in dead images, but it is wisdom to trust in the living God, for he is a help and a shield to those that do trust in them, a help to furnish them with and forward them in that which is good, and a shield to fortify them against and protect them from every thing that is evil. Therefore, 1. Let Israel trust in the Lord; the body of the people, as to their public interests, and every particular Israelite, as to his own private concerns, let them leave it to God to dispose of all for them, and believe it will dispose of all for the best and will be their help and shield. 2. Let the priests, the Lord's ministers, and all the families of the house of Aaron, trust in the Lord, (Psa 115:10); they are most maligned and struck at by the enemies and therefore of them God takes particular care. They ought to be examples to others of a cheerful confidence in God, and a faithful adherence to him in the worst of times. 3. Let the proselytes, who are not of the seed of Israel, but fear the Lord, who worship him and make conscience of their duty to him, let them trust in him, for he will not fail nor forsake them, Psa 115:11. Note, Wherever there is an awful fear of God, there may be a cheerful faith in him: those that reverence his word may rely upon it.
II. We are greatly encouraged to trust in God, and good reason is given us why we should stay ourselves upon him with an entire satisfaction. Consider, 1. What we have experienced (Psa 115:12): The Lord has been mindful of us, and never unmindful, has been so constantly, has been so remarkably upon special occasions. He has been mindful of our case, our wants and burdens, mindful of our prayers to him, his promises to us, and the covenant-relation between him and us. All our comforts are derived from God's thoughts to us-ward; he has been mindful of us, though we have forgotten him. Let this engage us to trust in him, that we have found him faithful. 2. What we may expect. From what he has done for us we may infer, He will bless us; he that has been our help and our shield will be so; he that has remembered us in our low estate will not forget us; for he is still the same, his power and goodness the same, and his promise inviolable; so that we have reason to hope that he who has delivered, and does, will yet deliver. Yet this is not all: He will bless us; he has promised that he will; he has pronounced a blessing upon all his people. God's blessing us is not only speaking good to us, but doing well for us; those whom he blesses are blessed indeed. It is particularly promised that he will bless the house of Israel, that is, he will bless the commonwealth, will bless his people in their civil interests. He will bless the house of Aaron, that is, the church, the ministry, will bless his people in their religious concerns. The priests were to bless the people; it was their office (Num 6:23); but God blessed them, and so blessed their blessings. Nay (Psa 115:13), he will bless those that fear the Lord, though they be not of the house of Israel or the house of Aaron; for it was a truth, before Peter perceived it, That in every nation he that fears God is accepted or him, and blessed, Act 10:34, Act 10:35. He will bless them both small and great, both young and old. God has blessings in store for those that are good betimes and for those that are old disciples, both those that are poor in the world and those that make a figure. The greatest need his blessing, and it shall not be denied to the meanest that fear him. Both the weak in grace and the strong shall be blessed of God, the lambs and the sheep of his flock. It is promised (Psa 115:14), The Lord shall increase you. Whom God blesses he increases; that was one of the earliest and most ancient blessings, Be fruitful and multiply. God's blessing gives an increase - increase in number, building up the family - increase in wealth, adding to the estate and honour - especially an increase in spiritual blessings, with the increasings of God. He will bless you with the increase of knowledge and wisdom, of grace, holiness, and joy; those are blessed indeed whom God thus increases, who are made wiser and better, and fitter for God and heaven. It is promised that this shall be, (1.) A constant continual increase: "He shall increase you more and more; so that, as long as you live, you shall be still increasing, till you come to perfection, as the shining light," Pro 4:18. (2.) An hereditary increase: "You and your children; you in your children." It is a comfort to parents to see their children increasing in wisdom and strength. There is a blessing entailed upon the seed of those that fear God even in their infancy. For (Psa 115:15), You are blessed of the Lord, you and your children are so; all that see them shall acknowledge them, that they are the seed which the Lord has blessed, Isa 59:9. Those that are the blessed of the Lord have encouragement enough to trust in the Lord, as their help and shield, for it is he that made heaven and earth; therefore his blessings are free, for he needs not any thing himself; and therefore they are rich, for he has all things at command for us if we fear him and trust in him. He that made heaven and earth can doubtless make those happy that trust in him, and will do it.
III. We are stirred up to praise God by the psalmist's example, who concludes the psalm with a resolution to persevere in his praises. 1. God is to be praised, Psa 115:16. He is greatly to be praised; for, (1.) His glory is high. See how stately his palace is, and the throne he has prepared in the heavens: The heaven, even the heavens are the Lord's; he is the rightful owner of all the treasures of light and bliss in the upper and better world, and is in the full possession of them, for he is himself infinitely bright and happy. (2.) His goodness is large, for the earth he has given to the children of men, having designed it, when he made it, for their use, to find them with meat, drink, and lodging. Not but that still he is proprietor in chief; the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; but he has let out that vineyard to these unthankful husbandmen, and from them he expects the rents and services; for, though he has given them the earth, his eye is upon them, and he will call them to render an account how they use it. Calvin complains that profane wicked people, in his days, perverted this scripture, and made a jest of it, which some in our days do, arguing, in banter, that God, having given the earth to the children of men, will no more look after it, nor after them upon it, but they may do what they will with it, and make the best of it as their portion; it is as it were thrown like a prey among them, Let him seize it that can. It is a pity that such an instance as this gives of God's bounty to man, and such a proof as arises from it of man's obligation to God, should be thus abused. From the highest heavens, it is certain, God beholds all the children of men; to them he has given the earth; but to the children of God heaven is given. 2. The dead are not capable of praising him (Psa 115:17), nor any that go into silence. The soul indeed lives in a state of separation from the body and is capable of praising God; and the souls of the faithful, after they are delivered from the burdens of the flesh, do praise God, are still praising him; for they go up to the land of perfect light and constant business. But the dead body cannot praise God; death puts an end to our glorifying God in this world of trial and conflict, to all our services in the field; the grave is a land of darkness and silence, where there is no work or device. This they plead with God for deliverance out of the hand of their enemies, "Lord, if they prevail to cut us off, the idols will carry the day, and there will be none to praise thee, to bear thy name, and to bear a testimony against the worshippers of idols." The dead praise not the Lord, so as we do in the business and for the comforts of this life. See Psa 30:9; Psa 88:10. 3. Therefore it concerns us to praise him (Psa 115:18): "But we, we that are alive, will bless the Lord; we and those that shall come after us, will do it, from this time forth and for evermore, to the end of time; we and those we shall remove to, from this time forth and to eternity. The dead praise not the Lord, therefore we will do it the more diligently." (1.) Others are dead, and an end is thereby put to their service, and therefore we will lay out ourselves to do so much the more for God, that we may fill up the gap. Moses my servant is dead, now therefore, Joshua, arise. (2.) We ourselves must shortly go to the land of silence; but, while we do live, we will bless the Lord, will improve our time and work that work of him that sent us into the world to praise him before the night comes, and because the night comes, wherein no man can work. The Lord will bless us (Psa 115:12); he will do well for us, and therefore we will bless him, we will speak well of him. Poor returns for such receivings! Nay, we will not only do it ourselves, but will engage others to do it. Praise the Lord; praise him with us; praise him in your places, as we in ours; praise him when we are gone, that he may be praised for evermore. Hallelujah.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 9–18. Public domain.
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Augustine of HippoAD 430
Exposition on Psalm 115
The result that ensues is that described in the next verse: "They that make them are like them, and so are all such as put their trust in them" [Psalm 115:8]. Let them therefore see with open eyes, and worship with shut and dead understandings, idols that neither see nor live. "But the house of Israel has hoped in the Lord" [Psalm 115:9]. "For hope that is seen is not hope; for what a man sees, why does he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it." [Romans 8:24-25] But that this patience may endure to the end, "He is their helper and defender." Do perhaps spiritual persons (by whom carnal minds are built up in "the spirit of meekness," [Galatians 6:1] because they pray as higher for lower minds) already see, and is that already to them reality which to the lower is hope? It is not so. For even "the house of Aaron has hope in the Lord" [Psalm 115:10]. Therefore, that they also may stretch forward perseveringly towards those things which are before them, and may run perseveringly, until they may apprehend that for which they are apprehended, [Philippians 3:12-14] and may know even as they are known, [1 Corinthians 13:12] "He is their helper and defender." For both "fear the Lord, and have hoped in the Lord: He is their helper and defender" [Psalm 115:11].
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Psalms 115:10 delivers a direct and profound exhortation to the "house of Aaron," the priestly lineage of Israel, urging them to place their complete and unwavering trust in the Lord. This verse, embedded within a psalm that powerfully contrasts the living, sovereign God with lifeless, impotent idols, underscores the absolute necessity of faithful dependence upon the Almighty. It emphatically declares that the Lord Himself is the unfailing source of their assistance and protection, highlighting His active, comprehensive, and personal care for those who choose to rely solely upon Him amidst a world of false securities.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Psalms 115:10 masterfully employs several potent Literary Devices to convey its message. The primary device is Exhortation, a direct and forceful command ("trust in the LORD") that urges a specific action, emphasizing its importance and urgency, particularly to a group with significant spiritual responsibility. This is immediately followed by a powerful use of Metaphor, where God is described as "their help and their shield." These two metaphors are rich in meaning: "help" (ʻêzer) conveys active assistance, support, and divine intervention, while "shield" (mâgên) denotes comprehensive protection and defense, together painting a vivid and comprehensive picture of God's benevolent and active care. There is also an implied Contrast within the broader psalm, as the living, active God who is "help and shield" stands in stark opposition to the lifeless, impotent idols described earlier in the psalm (vv. 4-7), which can offer no assistance or protection whatsoever. This contrast underscores the profound wisdom, rationality, and necessity of trusting solely in the true God.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The command for the "house of Aaron" to trust in the Lord, who is their help and shield, resonates deeply with core biblical truths about God's character and His unwavering relationship with His people. It underscores God's covenant faithfulness, His unwavering commitment to provide for and protect those who are His own. This trust is not passive resignation but an active, dynamic reliance on a God who is both immanent (actively involved in human affairs) and transcendent (sovereign over all creation). It speaks to the universal human need for security, provision, and assistance, pointing to God as the ultimate and only reliable source. The specific priestly context highlights that even those closest to God's service and revelation require constant, conscious dependence on Him, demonstrating that spiritual privilege does not negate the need for foundational faith, but rather deepens and intensifies it. This theme of divine protection and provision is a consistent and comforting thread throughout Scripture, assuring believers of God's unfailing care in every generation.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While specifically addressed to the "house of Aaron," the message of Psalms 115:10 holds profound and timeless relevance for all believers today. In a world characterized by pervasive uncertainty, escalating anxiety, and myriad temptations to place our trust in fleeting human constructs—be it wealth, political power, human wisdom, or self-reliance—this verse serves as a powerful and enduring reminder that our ultimate security, strength, and provision come from God alone. Just as the priests needed to rely on God for the integrity and efficacy of their sacred duties, we too are called to actively place our confidence in the Lord in every facet of our lives. This means recognizing Him as our constant help in times of weakness, our unfailing shield against spiritual and worldly dangers, and the ultimate source of all good. This call to trust is a foundational principle for a life of authentic faith, leading to profound peace, spiritual stability, and true freedom in God's presence, empowering us to live out our "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9) in a manner that truly honors Him and bears witness to His faithfulness.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who was the "house of Aaron" and why were they specifically mentioned?
Answer: The "house of Aaron" refers to the priestly lineage descended directly from Aaron, the elder brother of Moses. They were divinely appointed and consecrated to serve as priests in Israel, holding a unique and critical role in the nation's spiritual life. Their responsibilities included mediating between God and the people, offering sacrifices on behalf of the community, maintaining the Tabernacle and later the Temple, and teaching God's Law (Leviticus 10-11). They were specifically mentioned in Psalms 115:10 because of their prominent position and sacred duties. Their trust in the Lord was paramount not only for their personal faithfulness but also as an exemplary model for the entire nation. If even those closest to God's service needed to be exhorted to trust Him, it underscored the universal and essential nature of such reliance, especially in stark contrast to the surrounding idolatry and the temptations to rely on human wisdom or power.
How is God our "help" and "shield" in a practical sense today?
Answer: God acts as our "help" by providing strength, wisdom, resources, and divine intervention in our lives in tangible ways. This can manifest as clear guidance through difficult decisions (Proverbs 3:6), profound comfort in times of sorrow and distress (2 Corinthians 1:3-4), or supernatural provision in moments of dire need (Philippians 4:19). He is our "shield" by actively protecting us from spiritual attacks, physical harm, and the schemes of the enemy. This protection may not always mean the absence of trials or suffering, but rather God's preserving presence and sustaining power through them (Isaiah 43:2). Ultimately, He ensures that no weapon formed against His people will ultimately prosper against His divine purposes for them (Isaiah 54:17), guarding our souls and securing our eternal destiny.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 115:10 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the "house of Aaron" served as earthly mediators and priests, their ministry, with its sacrifices and intercessions, inherently foreshadowed the perfect and eternal High Priesthood of Christ (Hebrews 4:14). He is the one in whom all trust is perfectly and completely placed, for He is God incarnate (John 1:14), the very embodiment of divine help and protection. Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Jesus became the ultimate "help," delivering humanity from the bondage of sin, the power of death, and the wrath of God (Romans 5:8). He is also our absolute and impenetrable "shield," guarding us from the spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:16), securing our eternal salvation (John 10:28), and preserving us until the day of redemption (Philippians 1:6). Our trust in the Lord today is inherently trust in Christ, for it is through Him that we have access to God's comprehensive care and blessings (Ephesians 2:18). He perfectly fulfilled the priestly role, offering Himself as the once-for-all sacrifice for sins (Hebrews 10:10), and now intercedes for us eternally in heaven (He Who Always Lives to Intercede), making Him our constant help and impenetrable shield against every adversary and every fear.