118:6 118:6

Psalms 118:7

118:8 118:8

Bible Versions

The LORD taketh my part with them that help me: therefore shall I see [my desire] upon them that hate me.
The LORD {H3068} taketh my part with them that help {H5826} me: therefore shall I see {H7200} my desire upon them that hate {H8130} me.
With ADONAI on my side as my help, I will look with triumph at those who hate me.
The LORD is on my side; He is my helper. Therefore I will look in triumph on those who hate me.
Jehovah is on my side among them that help me: Therefore shall I seemy desireupon them that hate me.

Psalms 118:7 is a powerful declaration of faith and confidence in God's active involvement in the life of the psalmist. It expresses an unwavering belief that the Lord stands with His people, ensuring their ultimate triumph over adversaries.

Context

Psalm 118 is a vibrant psalm of thanksgiving, likely sung during a major festival or public celebration, such as the Feast of Tabernacles or a victory procession. It is part of the "Egyptian Hallel" (Psalms 113-118), traditionally recited during Passover, highlighting God's deliverance of Israel from bondage. The psalmist, having faced severe distress and opposition, now reflects on the Lord's mighty hand in providing salvation and support. Verse 7 specifically articulates the psalmist's conviction that God is not a passive observer but an active participant, taking sides with His faithful ones.

Key Themes

  • Divine Partnership and Support: The core message is God's unwavering support. "The LORD taketh my part" signifies God's personal advocacy and involvement. He is not merely a distant observer but a committed ally who actively intervenes on behalf of those who trust Him. This divine aid is even more profound as it works "with them that help me," suggesting God orchestrates or empowers human assistance.
  • Vindication and Triumph: The phrase "therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me" speaks to the psalmist's certainty of vindication. It's not about personal revenge but about witnessing God's justice prevail over those who oppose His purposes and His people. This theme reassures believers that God will ultimately bring about a just resolution and triumph over adversity. For more on God's protection, see Romans 8:31.
  • Unshakable Confidence: Despite facing "them that hate me," the psalmist's tone is one of profound confidence. This verse serves as a testament to the power of faith, demonstrating that reliance on the Lord brings assurance even in the face of strong opposition.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated "taketh my part" (לִי, li) literally means "for me" or "on my side," emphasizing God's personal and active championship of the psalmist. It conveys a sense of divine advocacy and intimate involvement. The phrase "my desire" (רָאִיתִי, ra'iti) comes from the verb "to see" (*ra'ah*), meaning "I shall see." While "my desire" is an accurate rendering of the outcome, the original Hebrew more literally implies "I shall see [what I want to see]" or "I shall witness [my vindication]" concerning my enemies. It underscores the visual, undeniable manifestation of God's justice.

Practical Application

Psalms 118:7 offers immense encouragement for believers facing opposition, injustice, or difficult circumstances today. It reminds us that:

  • God is On Our Side: When we feel outnumbered or overwhelmed, this verse affirms that the omnipotent Lord is actively working on our behalf, often through means we cannot foresee. This echoes the sentiment in Psalm 54:4, "Behold, God is mine helper."
  • Ultimate Vindication is Assured: We are called to trust God's timing and methods for justice. While we may not always see immediate resolution, the verse promises that God will ultimately bring about His righteous will, and we will witness His triumph over our spiritual and temporal adversaries. This aligns with the broader theme of Isaiah 41:10, where God promises to strengthen and help His people.
  • Confidence in Adversity: This verse fosters a spirit of bold faith, encouraging us to lean on God's strength rather than our own. It transforms fear into confidence, knowing that the Lord is our ultimate defender and champion.

The psalm as a whole, including this verse, serves as a powerful reminder to give thanks to the Lord, for "his mercy endureth for ever" (Psalm 118:1).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 59:10

    The God of my mercy shall prevent me: God shall let me see [my desire] upon mine enemies.

  • Psalms 54:4

    ¶ Behold, God [is] mine helper: the Lord [is] with them that uphold my soul.

  • Psalms 54:7

    For he hath delivered me out of all trouble: and mine eye hath seen [his desire] upon mine enemies.

  • Psalms 55:18

    He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle [that was] against me: for there were many with me.

  • Psalms 92:11

    Mine eye also shall see [my desire] on mine enemies, [and] mine ears shall hear [my desire] of the wicked that rise up against me.

  • Psalms 112:8

    His heart [is] established, he shall not be afraid, until he see [his desire] upon his enemies.

  • 1 Chronicles 12:18

    Then the spirit came upon Amasai, [who was] chief of the captains, [and he said], Thine [are we], David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse: peace, peace [be] unto thee, and peace [be] to thine helpers; for thy God helpeth thee. Then David received them, and made them captains of the band.
 Back

Search Scripture