Commentary on Psalms 20-30
Chuck Smith expounds on Psalms 20-30, revealing how trust in Jehovah's strength and salvation empowers believers to stand firm amid trials.
In this expository sermon, Chuck Smith carefully unpacks Psalms 20 through 30, highlighting the steadfast faith and trust in Jehovah as the source of strength and salvation. He emphasizes the futility of relying on human power and the importance of prayer and worship in the believer's life. Through his teaching, listeners are encouraged to stand firm and rejoice in God's deliverance and protection.
Text
Psalm 20 is to the chief musician also. It is a psalm of David.
The LORD hear thee in the day of trouble (Psa 20:1);
Actually, Jehovah, "May Jehovah hear you in the day of trouble."
the name of the God of Jacob [which is Jehovah or Yahweh] defend thee; Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion; Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice (Psa 20:1-3);
In other words, "May the Lord hear you, the name of the Lord, or Jehovah, the name of the God of Jacob defend you. May He send help and strengthen you, and remember, or take notice of all your offerings and accept your burnt sacrifices."
May he grant thee according to your own heart [that is, the desires of your heart], and fulfill all of your counsel. We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God [Yahweh or Jehovah] we will set up our banners: for Jehovah fulfill all your requests. Now know I that Jehovah saves his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand. Some trust in chariots, some in horses: but we will remember the name of Jehovah our God. They are brought down [those that are trusting in horses and chariots], and they are fallen: but [because we have trusted in the name of the Lord,] we are risen, and stand upright. Save, LORD: let the king hear us when we call (Psa 20:4-9).
Psalm 21
Again, to the chief musician, the psalm of David.
The king shall joy in thy strength, O LORD; and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice! Thou hast given him his heart\
Sermon Outline
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I. The Assurance of God's Help
- Jehovah hears in the day of trouble
- God defends and strengthens His people
- God remembers and accepts our offerings
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II. The Power of Trusting in Jehovah
- Rejecting worldly strength like chariots and horses
- Rising and standing upright through God's strength
- Rejoicing in God's salvation
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III. The King's Joy in God's Strength
- The king rejoices in the Lord's salvation
- God grants the desires of the heart
- The Lord's anointed is saved by divine power
Key Quotes
“May the Lord hear you, the name of the Lord, or Jehovah, the name of the God of Jacob defend you.” — Chuck Smith
“Some trust in chariots, some in horses: but we will remember the name of Jehovah our God.” — Chuck Smith
“Now know I that Jehovah saves his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand.” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- Place your full trust in God's power rather than worldly means when facing difficulties.
- Engage regularly in prayer, asking God to hear and strengthen you in times of trouble.
- Rejoice and find confidence in the salvation and protection that God provides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Psalms 20-30 according to Chuck Smith?
The main theme is trusting in Jehovah's strength and salvation during times of trouble.
How does Chuck Smith interpret the references to chariots and horses?
He explains they symbolize worldly or human strength which ultimately fails compared to trusting in God.
What role does prayer play in these Psalms?
Prayer is a vital expression of dependence on God, asking for His help and acknowledging His power.
Who is the 'king' mentioned in Psalm 21?
The king refers to David or God's anointed leader who rejoices in God's strength and salvation.