Each nation thinks their own nation’s military might is one of the best, if not the best in the world. It’s true in every nation. Each nation thinks their own special forces are the toughest. Every country teaches that to their youth. And while there are many tough people in the world who endure unbearable training to protect their country, this isn’t what the LORD is impressed by.
“He is not impressed by the strength of a horse; He does not value the power [the legs] of a man. The LORD values those who fear Him, those who put their hope in His faithful love” (Ps 147:10-11).
Sometimes, actually a lot of times, it’s easier to trust in ourselves and our own capabilities than the Lord. It’s why we worry. Worry is about not having control. We like control.
But it’s not fluffy business to put your faith in the LORD. I think of Hezekiah who was surrounded by enemies. He just needed to surrender and it would be over. But if he fought back, then they would literally, rape, kill and skin Hezekiah alive in a process of slow torture. Through the prophet Isaiah Hezekiah was told not to surrender but to trust the LORD. And the LORD soon after sent a disease that wiped out all the enemy troops.
That sounds like a nice story, unless you are Hezekiah and you have to make that call. Trusting the LORD for your life and the life of others is not easy business. We must hear him carefully, and obey what he says, not what we want Him to say.
This kind of trust and faith is what the LORD loves. This is what is valued. Not trust in military might, but trust in Him. This is what made David a great king. Yes, David was an incredible soldier and warrior. He was one of the best by far. Yet his trust was not in his own strength and power, but in the LORD.
It’s for this that David could sing of the goodness of the LORD. Twice in this psalm he says to sing to the LORD with thanksgiving, playing the lyre to God, because it is good (v. 1, 7).
David’s life was tumultuous. It was filled with glorifying highs and excruciating lows. But He rested and enjoyed and sang to the LORD. He is immovable no matter the crises of the moment.