Psalm 60:12 - Victory Through God
With God we will perform with valor
This phrase emphasizes the necessity of divine assistance in achieving victory. The context of Psalm 60 is a national lament, likely during a time of military defeat or distress. The psalmist acknowledges that human strength alone is insufficient without God's intervention. This reflects the broader biblical theme that true courage and success come from reliance on God (see Joshua 1:9, where God commands Joshua to be strong and courageous because the Lord is with him). The phrase also echoes the sentiment found in Philippians 4:13, where Paul states, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," highlighting the belief that divine empowerment is crucial for overcoming challenges.
and He will trample our enemies
This part of the verse conveys the assurance of God's ultimate victory over adversaries. The imagery of trampling suggests a decisive and overwhelming defeat, reminiscent of God's promises to Israel regarding their enemies (as seen in Deuteronomy 33:27, where God is described as driving out the enemy before Israel). Historically, this reflects the numerous battles Israel faced against surrounding nations, where victory was often attributed to God's intervention (e.g., the defeat of the Amalekites in Exodus 17:8-16). Theologically, this can be seen as a type of Christ's ultimate victory over sin and death, as prophesied in Genesis 3:15, where the seed of the woman will crush the serpent's head. This victory is fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus' death and resurrection, which defeats the ultimate enemies of sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:54-57).
Persons / Places / Events
1. David
The author of Psalm 60, David was the king of Israel and a man after God's own heart. He often faced military challenges and relied on God for victory.
2. Israel
The nation of God's chosen people, often engaged in battles with surrounding nations. Psalm 60 reflects a time of military struggle and divine intervention.
3. Edom
A nation often in conflict with Israel. The historical context of Psalm 60 involves battles against Edom and other neighboring enemies.
4. Joab
David's military commander, who played a significant role in the battles described in the historical context of this Psalm.
5. God
The central figure in the Psalm, who is depicted as the source of strength and victory for His people.
Teaching Points
Dependence on God for Victory
We are reminded that true victory comes not from our own strength but through reliance on God. In our personal battles, whether spiritual, emotional, or physical, we must trust in God's power to overcome.
Courage Through Faith
The phrase "perform with valor" suggests that our courage is rooted in faith. When we trust in God, we can face challenges with boldness, knowing He is with us.
God's Sovereignty Over Enemies
The assurance that God will "trample our enemies" speaks to His ultimate control over all circumstances. We can find peace in knowing that God is sovereign over any opposition we face.
Spiritual Warfare
This verse can be applied to the concept of spiritual warfare, where believers are called to stand firm in faith, using God's strength to overcome spiritual adversaries.
Community and Collective Faith
The use of "we" emphasizes the importance of community and collective faith. As a body of believers, we are called to support one another in our reliance on God.
Lists and Questions
Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 60What does 'The LORD said to my Lord' mean?If Psalm 60 is truly Davidic, why do some scholars assert that the psalm’s language or context suggests a later composition, potentially challenging its authenticity?If Psalm 108 is partly repeated from Psalms 57 and 60, does this raise doubts about its originality or authorship (Psalm 108)? How do we reconcile Psalm 83:4's call to wipe out Israel with God's promises of protection in other passages like Genesis 12:3?
Verse 12. - Through God we shall do valiantly. No miracle is expected or asked for. Let God look upon us favourably - let his light shine into our hearts, and then "we ourselves shall do valiantly" - we shall gain the victory - we shall accomplish the prophecy of Balaam (Numbers 24:18); and Edom shall pass into our possession. (For the fulfilment, see 2 Samuel 8:14; 1 Chronicles 18:13.) For he it is that shall tread down our enemies (comp. Psalm 44:5), which has the same meaning, "Through thy Name will we tread them under that rise up against us." (For the extent to which Edom was trodden down, see 1 Kings 11:15, 16.)
Hebrew
With God
בֵּֽאלֹהִ֥ים (bê·lō·hîm)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 430: gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative
we will perform
נַעֲשֶׂה־ (na·‘ă·śeh-)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common plural
Strong's 6213: To do, make
with valor;
חָ֑יִל (ḥā·yil)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2428: A force, an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength
He
וְ֝ה֗וּא (wə·hū)
Conjunctive waw | Pronoun - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1931: He, self, the same, this, that, as, are
will trample
יָב֥וּס (yā·ḇūs)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 947: To tread down, trample
our enemies.
צָרֵֽינוּ׃ (ṣā·rê·nū)
Noun - masculine plural construct | first person common plural
Strong's 6862: Narrow, a tight place, a pebble, an opponent
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Psalm 60:12 Catholic BibleOT Poetry: Psalm 60:12 Through God we shall do valiantly (Psalm Ps Psa.)