July 25, 2024

Does it ever feel like God has abandoned you?

Psalm 60

Cait Thorogood
Thursday's Devo

July 25, 2024

Thursday's Devo

July 25, 2024

Thursday's Devo

July 25, 2024

Thursday's Devo

July 25, 2024

Big Book Idea

Thinking and feeling God's way.

Key Verse | Psalm 60:10

Have you not rejected us, O God?
You do not go forth, O God, with our armies.

Psalm 60

He Will Tread Down Our Foes

To the choirmaster: according to Shushan Eduth. A Miktam 1 60:1 Probably musical or liturgical terms of David; for instruction; when he strove with Aram-naharaim and with Aram-zobah, and when Joab on his return struck down twelve thousand of Edom in the Valley of Salt.

1  O God, you have rejected us, broken our defenses;
    you have been angry; oh, restore us.
2  You have made the land to quake; you have torn it open;
    repair its breaches, for it totters.
3  You have made your people see hard things;
    you have given us wine to drink that made us stagger.

4  You have set up a banner for those who fear you,
    that they may flee to it from the bow. 2 60:4 Or that it may be displayed because of truth Selah
5  That your beloved ones may be delivered,
    give salvation by your right hand and answer us!

6  God has spoken in his holiness: 3 60:6 Or sanctuary
    “With exultation I will divide up Shechem
    and portion out the Vale of Succoth.
7  Gilead is mine; Manasseh is mine;
    Ephraim is my helmet;
    Judah is my scepter.
8  Moab is my washbasin;
    upon Edom I cast my shoe;
    over Philistia I shout in triumph.” 4 60:8 Revocalization (compare Psalm 108:10); Masoretic Text over me, O Philistia, shout in triumph

9  Who will bring me to the fortified city?
    Who will lead me to Edom?
10  Have you not rejected us, O God?
    You do not go forth, O God, with our armies.
11  Oh, grant us help against the foe,
    for vain is the salvation of man!
12  With God we shall do valiantly;
    it is he who will tread down our foes.

Footnotes

[1] 60:1 Probably musical or liturgical terms
[2] 60:4 Or that it may be displayed because of truth
[3] 60:6 Or sanctuary
[4] 60:8 Revocalization (compare Psalm 108:10); Masoretic Text over me, O Philistia, shout in triumph
Table of Contents
Introduction to The Psalms

Introduction to The Psalms

Timeline

Author and Date

Individual psalms come from diverse periods of Israel’s history, but at every stage they served as the songbook of God’s people. David wrote about half of the Psalms. His role as king was more than that of a ruler. He was to represent and even embody the people, and their well-being was tied to his faithfulness. David, then, writes as a representative, and the readers must discern whether the emphasis of a psalm is more on his role as ruler or more on his role as ideal Israelite, in which he is an example for all. The historical occasions mentioned in the psalm titles help the reader see how faith applies to real-life situations.

Key Themes

The Psalter is fundamentally the hymnbook of God’s people. It takes the basic themes of OT theology and turns them into song:

  1. Monotheism. The one God, Maker and Ruler of all, will vindicate his goodness and justice in his own time. Everyone must know and love this God, whose purity, power, wisdom, faithfulness, and unceasing love are breathtakingly beautiful.
  2. Creation and fall. Though God made man with dignity and purpose, all people since the fall are beset with sins and weaknesses that only God’s grace can heal.
  3. Election and covenant. The one true God chose a people for himself and bound himself to them by his covenant. This covenant expressed God’s intention to save his people, and through them to bring light to the world.
  4. Covenant membership. In his covenant, God offers grace to his people: forgiveness of their sins, the shaping of their lives to reflect his own glory, and a part to play as light to the Gentiles. Each member of God’s people is responsible to believe God’s promises and to grow in obeying his commands. Those who do this enjoy the full benefits of God’s love and find delight in knowing him. The well-being of God’s people as a whole affects the well-being of each member. Each one shares the joys and sorrows of the others. When believers suffer, they should not seek revenge but should pray. They can be confident that God will make all things right in his own time.
  5. Eschatology. The story of God’s people is headed toward a glorious future, in which all kinds of people will come to know the Lord. The personal faithfulness of God’s people contributes to his ultimate purpose. The Messiah, the ultimate heir of David, will lead his people in the great task of bringing light to the Gentiles.

Types of Psalms

The Psalms can be identified according to some basic categories:

Laments, which lay a troubled situation before the Lord, asking him for help. There are community (Psalm 12) and individual (Psalm 13) laments. This category is the largest by far, including up to a third of all Psalms.

Hymns of praise, which call God’s people to admire his great attributes and deeds. Examples include Psalms 8; 93; and 145.

Hymns of thanksgiving. As with laments, there are community (Psalm 9) and individual (Psalm 30) thanksgiving psalms.

Hymns celebrating God’s law (Psalm 119).

Wisdom psalms (Psalms 1; 37), which reflect themes from the Wisdom Books (Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon).

Songs of confidence, which enable worshipers to deepen their trust in God amid difficult circumstances (Psalm 23).

Royal psalms, which present the Davidic monarchy as the vehicle of blessing for God’s people. Some of these are prayers (Psalm 20), some are thanksgivings (Psalm 21). All relate to the Messiah, the ultimate heir of David, either by setting a pattern (Psalms 20–21) or by portraying the king’s reign in such a way that only the Messiah can completely fulfill it (Psalms 2; 72), or by focusing on the future (Psalm 110).

Historical psalms, which take lessons from the history of God’s dealings with his people (Psalm 78).

Prophetic hymns, which echo the Prophets, calling people to covenant faithfulness (Psalm 81).

Structure

The standard Hebrew text divides the Psalms into five “books,” perhaps in imitation of the five books of the Pentateuch.

Book 1 Psalms 1–41 Psalms 1–2 provide an introduction to the Psalms as a whole. Except for Psalms 10 and 33, the remaining psalms of Book 1 are psalms of David. Most of them are prayers of distress. Others are statements of confidence in the God who alone can save (e.g., 9; 11; 16; 18), striking the note that concludes the book (40–41). Reflections on ethics and worship are found in Psalms 1; 14–15; 19; 24; and 26.
Book 2 Psalms 42–72 Book 2 introduces the first group of psalms by the “sons of Korah” (42; 44–49; 50). There are also more psalms of David (51–65; 68–69), including most of the “historical” psalms (51–52; 54; 56–57; 59–60; 63). Once again, lament and distress dominate these prayers, which now also include a communal voice (e.g., 44; compare 67; 68). The lone psalm attributed to Solomon concludes Book 2 with a look at God’s ideal for Israel’s kings—ultimately pointing to Christ as the final great King of God’s people.
Book 3 Psalms 73–89 The tone darkens further in Book 3. The opening Psalm 73 starkly questions the justice of God before seeing light in God’s presence. That light has almost escaped the psalmist in Psalm 88, the bleakest of all psalms. Book 2 ended with the high point of royal aspirations; Book 3 concludes in Psalm 89 with these expectations badly threatened. Sharp rays of hope occasionally pierce the darkness (e.g., 75; 85; 87). The brief third book contains most of the psalms of Asaph (73–83), as well as another set of Korah psalms (84–85; 87–88).
Book 4 Psalms 90–106 Psalm 90 opens the fourth book of the psalms. It may be seen as the first response to the problems raised by Book 3. Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, reminds the worshiper that God was active on Israel’s behalf long before David. This theme is taken up in Psalms 103–106, which summarize God’s dealings with his people before any kings reigned. In between there is a group of psalms (93–100) characterized by the refrain “The LORD reigns.” This truth refutes the doubts of Psalm 89.
Book 5 Psalms 107–150 The structure of Book 5 reflects the closing petition of Book 4 in 106:47. It declares that God does answer prayer (107) and concludes with five Hallelujah psalms (146–150). In between there are several psalms affirming the validity of the promises to David (110; 132; 144), two collections of Davidic psalms (108–110; 138–145); the longest psalm, celebrating the value of God’s law (119); and 15 psalms of ascent for use by pilgrims to Jerusalem (120–134).
The Global Message of The Psalms

The Global Message of The Psalms

The Psalms are a resounding call for all God’s people and for all the world to sing! We are called to sing songs of confession and trust in God; to sing songs of thanksgiving and praise. The Psalms summon the global church to take up the cause of calling the world to join in such global and eternal songs of trust in, delight in, and worship of God for his magnificence—especially his magnificence displayed in his saving mercy.

Songs of Honest Lament

There is a surprising degree of honesty found in the prayers and songs of the Psalms. We find honest lament to God, with frequent repetition of questions such as “Why?” and “How long?” The psalmist asks in Psalm 42:9, “Why have you forgotten me?” Another psalm wonders, “Why, O LORD, do you stand far away? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?” (10:1; see also 88:14). “How long, O LORD?” is a frequent cry to God in the Psalms (see 6:3; 13:1; 79:5; 89:46).

Such prayers flow from desperately challenging situations, in which life feels overwhelming. Yet they also reflect the confident expectations of our honest cries to our compassionate and faithful God. The Lord invites his people worldwide to be boldly transparent before him—no masks, no pretense—even when the heart is breaking. He promises never to abandon those who belong to him.

Songs of Repentance and Trust

Songs of repentance are scattered throughout the Psalms. In such songs there are confessions of corporate sin—“Both we and our fathers have sinned; we have committed iniquity; we have done wickedness” (Ps. 106:6)—and individual songs of penitence (Psalms 6; 25; 32; 38; 51; 130; 143). These are not hopeless laments, but cries to a God who is a gracious deliverer (6:4), who deals with us according to his great love and mercy (51:1), and whose forgiveness flows from his goodness and not ours (130:3–4).

There is abundant reason to trust such a God for every good thing and in every situation (Psalm 23). To such a God we turn in times of great trouble, when we are at an utter loss in this fallen world. When enemies surround us and there is no one to help, God is our hope for deliverance (Psalm 22). Whether the desperate individual (Psalm 13) or the destitute community (Psalm 12) is in view, God is faithful to his promises. His steadfast love endures. He is worthy of our songs!

Songs of Thanksgiving and Praise

The Psalms are a divinely orchestrated hymnbook of thanksgiving and praise for God’s people. The covenant people of God return thanks to God for his wonderful deeds of deliverance, justice, and defense (Psalm 9), and for his favor and mercies (30:5, 7, 8, 10). All of this moves his people to burst into songs of joy and glad dancing (30:11–12).

In the Psalms, the people of God rejoice in all that God is and all that he has done. These songs of praise exalt God for his unsearchable greatness, his glorious splendor, and his awesome deeds (Ps. 145:3–6). He is worshiped as the King over all creation (93:1),the eternal King (10:16), the King of glory (24:8, 10), the King of all the earth (47:7), and the great King above all gods (95:3).

The Global Message of the Psalms

For all God’s people. The global message of the Psalms is that in light of God’s unfailing love and faithfulness there is a song to be sung by all God’s people everywhere—whatever their circumstances, whatever their emotions, whatever their adversity. The song to be sung will be of varied themes: lament, confession, repentance, thanksgiving, or praise to God. All of these, however, are songs of worship, expressing the universal experiences of God’s people. This is worship of God by the individual and the community, local and global, young and old (Ps. 148:12), now and forever (89:52). For a lost world filled with rebellion and sorrow, there is no greater remedy than a song that brings those who sing it to take refuge in God himself: a song for the oppressed, the hungry, the prisoner, the sojourner, the widow, and the fatherless (146:7–9).

A new song. The message of the Psalms is a call to the whole world to “Sing a new song!” “Oh sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth!” (Ps. 96:1). This is not a song of empty promises, but a song full of hope, a song exulting in the salvation of a covenant keeping and merciful God; not a song that fades, but an enduring, eternal song; a song of a God who lifts us out of mud and mire (69:2, 14).

Celebrating salvation. The book of Psalms opens with a picture of the two ways of life—the blessed and fruitful life of the one who delights in God, and the fleeting life of the wicked who (apart from God) stand condemned (Psalm 1). The world is called to set aside folly and to join in the life and song of the Redeemer, celebrating the salvation that is rooted in the sacrifice of the Savior (Psalm 22). This new song has been sung down through the ages; it continues today throughout the world; and it will one day be sung in the very throne room of God (Rev. 14:3).

Summoning the Nations

To the ends of the earth. The global church has a message for the world: join in this song! It is a celebration that will generate further praise—globally, generationally, and eternally. The church is to “declare his glory among the nations!” (Ps. 96:3). From Israel to the Christian church today to the global kingdom that will one day be known to the very ends of the earth, the redeemed of the Lord will come from every nation, tribe, people, and language, giving God thanks and celebrating his grace (Rev. 7:9).

For all nations. There is a message for the nations: “Praise the LORD, all nations! Extol him, all peoples!” (Ps. 117:1). The Lord humbles the nations (9:5, 19, 20), but he extends to all an offer of mercy and grace. One day, the nations will become Christ’s inheritance (2:8). This song begins with us but it must not end with us. There is a glorious globalization of the worship of God that we are privileged to help advance. In Christ we have found fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore (16:11). In turn we call the nations as well to be glad and sing for joy in him (67:4).

Fulfilled in Jesus. The love and mercy of God that forms the heart of the Psalms explodes onto history with the coming of Christ. It is in and through him that believers worldwide see God’s covenant faithfulness right before their eyes.

Spreading God’s glory. That glorious, global worship of God through Jesus Christ is not yet fully known or complete. Generating it is therefore our glad mission while on this earth. We will not rest till God’s glorious name is blessed forever and the whole earth is filled with his glory (Ps. 72:19).

Psalms Fact #3: How are the Psalms divided?

Fact: How are the Psalms divided?

How are the Psalms divided? The Psalms are divided into five books: 1–41; 42–72; 73–89; 90–106; 107–150. Each book ends with a “doxology,” a hymn of praise to God.

Psalms Fact #4: What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God?

Fact: What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God?

What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God? The Psalms were the songbook of the people of God when they gathered for worship.

Psalms Fact #6: What is a psalm of lament?

Fact: What is a psalm of lament?

What is a psalm of lament? The main purpose of a psalm of lament is to tell the Lord about a difficult situation, to ask him for his help, and to praise him for helping. Some laments are community, congregational psalms. Others are individual, personal laments. One third of all the Psalms are psalms of lament.

Psalms Fact #7: How many of the Psalms were written by David?

Fact: How many of the Psalms were written by David?

How many of the Psalms were written by David? David is the author of about half of the Psalms. Other authors include Asaph, Solomon, Moses, and the sons of Korah.

Psalms Fact #9: What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel?

Fact: What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel?

What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel? The “enemies” mentioned in the Psalms (e.g., 18:17) were people hostile to the faith of God’s people. Sometimes they expressed their hatred by physically attacking the people of Israel, while other times they merely rejoiced when Israel faced misfortunes.

Psalms Fact #10: Are the Psalms poetry?

Fact: Are the Psalms poetry?

Are the Psalms poetry? The Psalms often reflect the feelings or emotions of the person who wrote the psalm. The book of Psalms includes poetry that covers all kinds of emotional feelings and experiences, from anguish and sorrow to great joy and thanksgiving.

Psalms Fact #12: How often does the NT quote from the Psalms?

Fact: How often does the NT quote from the Psalms?

How often does the NT quote from the Psalms? Of all the OT books, the Psalms and Isaiah are by far the two most widely quoted in the NT.

Psalms Fact #13: Selah

Fact: Selah

What does Selah mean? Although the word Selah is found 39 times in the book of Psalms, its exact meaning is uncertain. Most scholars believe it is a musical term or a term to be used by a worship leader, possibly to mark a pause.

Psalms Fact #20: Snares

Fact: Snares

Snares (38:12) were traps used to catch birds and animals. Some snares used ropes or nets that would be triggered as soon as the bait was touched. Pits disguised with sticks and leaves were also used as snares. In the Psalms, snares serve as symbols of danger or death at the hands of the wicked.

Psalms Fact #27: A helpful guide

Fact: A helpful guide

A helpful guide. The writers of the Psalms understood the importance of constant communication with God. They knew that God would hear their prayers, and they trusted him to act on their behalf. Believers today can benefit greatly by patterning their prayers after specific psalms.

Psalms Fact #28: Memorizing the Psalms

Fact: Memorizing the Psalms

Memorizing the Psalms. The poetic style of the Psalms make them easy to memorize. Throughout the centuries, many believers have memorized all 150 Psalms.

Psalms Fact #40: How long?

Fact: How long?

How long? This question (79:5) occurs nearly twenty times in the Psalms, more than any other question. It is almost always associated with a psalm of lament, such as Psalm 79.

Psalms Fact #30: Banners

Fact: Banners

Banners served as battle flags in ancient wars. Attached to poles, they were used to signal troop movements or to serve as rallying points. Banners could be actual flags or they could be carved figures, often depicting a bird or animal. Each of the Israelite tribes may have had a banner to help organize the mass exodus out of Sinai. In Psalm 60:4, the banner is a symbol of God’s protection over those who trust him.

Structure of Psalms

Structure of Psalms

The standard Hebrew text divides the Psalms into five “books,” perhaps in imitation of the five books of the Pentateuch.

Book 1 Psalms 1–41 Psalms 1–2 provide an introduction to the Psalms as a whole. Except for Psalms 10 and 33, the remaining psalms of Book 1 are psalms of David. Most of them are prayers of distress. Others are statements of confidence in the God who alone can save (e.g., 9; 11; 16; 18), striking the note that concludes the book (40–41). Reflections on ethics and worship are found in Psalms 1; 14–15; 19; 24; and 26.
Book 2 Psalms 42–72 Book 2 introduces the first group of psalms by the “sons of Korah” (42; 44–49; 50). There are also more psalms of David (51–65; 68–69), including most of the “historical” psalms (51–52; 54; 56–57; 59–60; 63). Once again, lament and distress dominate these prayers, which now also include a communal voice (e.g., 44; compare 67; 68). The lone psalm attributed to Solomon concludes Book 2 with a look at God’s ideal for Israel’s kings—ultimately pointing to Christ as the final great King of God’s people.
Book 3 Psalms 73–89 The tone darkens further in Book 3. The opening Psalm 73 starkly questions the justice of God before seeing light in God’s presence. That light has almost escaped the psalmist in Psalm 88, the bleakest of all psalms. Book 2 ended with the high point of royal aspirations; Book 3 concludes in Psalm 89 with these expectations badly threatened. Sharp rays of hope occasionally pierce the darkness (e.g., 75; 85; 87). The brief third book contains most of the psalms of Asaph (73–83), as well as another set of Korah psalms (84–85; 87–88).
Book 4 Psalms 90–106 Psalm 90 opens the fourth book of the psalms. It may be seen as the first response to the problems raised by Book 3. Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, reminds the worshiper that God was active on Israel’s behalf long before David. This theme is taken up in Psalms 103–106, which summarize God’s dealings with his people before any kings reigned. In between there is a group of psalms (93–100) characterized by the refrain “The LORD reigns.” This truth refutes the doubts of Psalm 89.
Book 5 Psalms 107–150 The structure of Book 5 reflects the closing petition of Book 4 in 106:47. It declares that God does answer prayer (107) and concludes with five Hallelujah psalms (146–150). In between there are several psalms affirming the validity of the promises to David (110; 132; 144), two collections of Davidic psalms (108–110; 138–145); the longest psalm, celebrating the value of God’s law (119); and 15 psalms of ascent for use by pilgrims to Jerusalem (120–134).
OT Testimony that All Are under Sin (3:9)

OT Testimony that All Are under Sin (3:9)

Romans 3 OT Reference
Sinful Condition
v. 10, none is righteous Ps. 14:3/53:3; Eccles. 7:20
v. 11a, no one understands Ps. 14:2/53:2
v. 11b, no one seeks for God Ps. 14:2/53:2
v. 12, all have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one Ps. 14:3/53:3
Sinful Speech (note progression from throat to tongue to lips)
v. 13a, b, their throat is an open grave; they use their tongues to deceive Ps. 5:10, Septuagint (English, 5:9)
v. 13c, the venom of asps is under their lips Ps. 140:3
v. 14, their mouth is full of curses and bitterness Ps. 10:7
Sinful Action
v. 15, their feet are swift to shed blood Prov. 1:16/Isa. 59:7
v. 16, in their paths are ruin and misery Isa. 59:7
v. 17, and the way of peace they have not known Isa. 59:8
Summary Statement
v. 18, there is no fear of God before their eyes Ps. 36:1
Study Notes
Psalms Fact #30: Banners

Fact: Banners

Banners served as battle flags in ancient wars. Attached to poles, they were used to signal troop movements or to serve as rallying points. Banners could be actual flags or they could be carved figures, often depicting a bird or animal. Each of the Israelite tribes may have had a banner to help organize the mass exodus out of Sinai. In Psalm 60:4, the banner is a symbol of God’s protection over those who trust him.

Study Notes

Ps. 60:1–5 rejected. The community believes God has treated them as if they were not his own people. They refer to themselves as your beloved. This is why the complaint is so touching, and why they may confidently pray for restoration. The salvation that they pray for is military success, so that Israel can be a blessing to the rest of the world.

Study Notes

Ps. 60:6–8 God has spoken. The places mentioned in vv. 6–7 (Shechem, Succoth, Gilead, Manasseh, Ephraim, and Judah) are all parts of the land that God promised to Israel. The places in v. 8 (Moab, Edom, Philistia) are neighboring lands, which also belong to the Lord (see Ex. 19:5). Israel exists to bring blessing to the Gentiles. In David’s time this normally happened as these nations came under Israelite control (see note on Psalm 2). Thus the military campaign is seen as part of Israel’s mission to the world.

Study Notes

Psalm Ps. 60. This is a lament for the whole community of Israel at a time when their continued life in the land is being threatened by Gentile neighbors. The title says it is “for instruction.” Perhaps this means that it is to instruct the people how to pray when their troops must fight. The title seems to link the psalm with the events of 2 Sam. 8:1–14.

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Dive Deeper | Psalm 60

I'm a big fan of history. I have traveled to many cities and countries, taking in museums and sights. One thing I've seen both then and now is that in this life we encounter moments of struggle and adversity, whether it's facing the immense pressures of leadership during a world war or dealing with daily challenges. Just as Winston Churchill led Britain through World War II and publicly turned to God for strength, David is declaring his trust in God to help him with the battle ahead.

Churchill, like David, faced criticism and pressure. Yet he understood human efforts alone could not secure a victory. He knew the importance of standing firm against the enemy, similar to David's cry for strength in his defeat. We may not be uniting a nation or facing thousands of Ammonites, but we are confronting a relentless adversary who means to harm us (Ephesians 6:12).

David recognized that defeating the Ammonites required God to go before him. It's a reminder that we often rely on our strength to get through each day, which can leave us facing burnout, anxiety, depression, or whatever your struggle may be.

You have set up a banner for those who fear you, that they may flee to it from the bow. Selah
That your beloved ones may be delivered, give salvation by your right hand and answer us! (Psalm 60:4-5)

Psalm 60 offers us a prayer and a way to find relief by talking with God. He is always there, waiting to meet us. All we must do is open our hearts and engage in conversation with Him. Through faith we can find victory and peace.

Friends, if you need to find relief from your battle, I urge you to turn to God. He is there, and the good news is that the battle has already been won.

For some encouragement as you continue your day, listen to "You've Already Won" by Shane & Shane.

This month's memory verse

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

– Romans 15:13

Discussion Questions

1. David was very honest with his emotions. What are some barriers holding you back from crying out to God?

2. How can you remind yourself of God's faithfulness when challenges arise? What are specific Scriptures that help you do this?

3. How can you use the lesson in Psalm 60 to encourage others who may be facing challenges or feeling abandoned by God?

As we gear up to release even more features for Join The Journey in 2025, our staff team, unfortunately, no longer has the margin to continue to support the comment functionality. We have big things in store for Join The Journey 2025. Stay tuned!

MS

Michael Scaman

It’s like a musical work coming to crescendo. 3rd Psalm in a row where God’s glory will reach or be seen to the ends of the earth in Psalm 57:11, Psalm 58:5,11, Psalm 59:13. And now the peak. Those who trust in You should not be moved but we feel the ground tremors and tottering , experiencing hard things We look to your promises forged in Your holiness for our hope. David sings this using some sober but evocative some whimsical imagery in a serious matter. Psalm 60 is the last of a string of 7 specified enemies of David. The enemy here are distant nations. God will not flex his arms to fight rather he will wash up and effortlessly toss his shoe at them. The estranged northern kingdom, those wayward “Damn Yankees”, will be redeemed as God’s helmet. The southern kingdom more faithful but not always will be his ruling scepter. God as if standing missing a shoe now a loud happy winner of a boxing match above unconscious Phillistia. Instead of a personal crisis the focus here is on a national crisis at hand and a plea for God to go with their armies to Edom. In Psalm 60, the repeated words emphasize the psalmist's plea for restoration, his acknowledgment of God's power, and his confidence in victory. Key repetitions include: "Rejected" / "Broken" / "Anger": (verses 1, 10) "Earth" / "Tremble" / "Torn": (verse 2) "Banner" / "Fear" / "Rally": (verse 4) "God" / "Help" / "Against": (verses 11-12) "Victory" / "Trample" / "Foes": (verse 12) Going forward, in later Psalms instead of danger limited to a national crisis of physical bondage there is a greater deliverance to come. There was a TV show in the 60s called The Ed Sullivan Show." In the intro he often used the phrase "a really big show," but his pronunciation made it sound like "a really big shoe." Here God tosses a really big shoe. Really big shoe now in Psalm 60. "upon Edom I cast my shoe” in the spirit of "shoe" will a "kick off" of the big ending for Psalms book 2 in Psalm 61-72 which is analogous to the tabernacle at the end of Exodus foretelling the ascension, the tearing down and rebuilding the greater than the temple, deliverance from the fall and the filling of the earth sometimes called the "Eden-ization" of the temple). Psalms 68-72 Really big shoe encore in Psalm 108 "upon Edom I cast my shoe;" a in the 'kick off" to the Passover Psalms in book 5. The most famous Edomites being the Herod family. One toss of God’s sandal and the Herod’s knocked off the pages of history when the Lamb of God takes away the sins of the world. The salvation will point then to salvation from sin. With the celebration of the Passover lamb in Psalm 108-118 who is Jesus. Psalm 108 also has elements of Psalm 57:8 "I will awaken the dawn". Psalm 108:1-2. God tosses his sandal at serious foreign powers physically threatening His people. God uses his fingers to make the stars God uses his finger to trace the words of the commandments. God flexes his holy arm for salvation from sin. Everyone looks for answers but “Vain is the salvation of man”. Psalm 60:11.
GJ

greg jones

There is that thing that psalms of David do over and over and over again. That is, it goes against the grain of the narrative. Psalm 60 throws a curve though. The recorded biblical setting would be 2 Samuel 8 and 1 Chronicles 18. In 2 Samuel 8 twice it says “and the Lord gave victory to David wherever he went” verse 6b, verse 14b. Everything is positive, but the psalm doesn’t reflect that. (BTW another Bible thing, much of Chronicles is a word for word repeat of Samuel and Kings. When it goes off script it usually cleans something up. 1 Chronicles 18:2 goes off script by omitting “and he measured them with a line, making them lie down on the ground. Two lines he measured to be put to death, and one full line to be spared” from 2 Samuel 8:2.) Back to Psalm 60 it’s kinda like David doesn’t know God. Or maybe he doesn’t see the big picture. 2 Samuel the picture is this “the LORD gave victory to David wherever he went” 2 Samuel 8:6,14. As David is defeating his enemies they are becoming servants to him and bringing him tribute. These tributes David is dedicating to the LORD 2 Samuel 18:11. And 2 Samuel 13 David is making quite a name for himself. Therefore the picture of 2 Samuel 8, David bows before the LORD others bow before David. Fast forward a few hundred years to Isaiah 45, Israel has been dispersed among the nations by the Assyrians Judah exiled to Babylon. The idea of every knee shall bow every tongue confess that Paul uses in his gospel (Romans 15:11 Philippians 2:10–11) is introduced. Turn to me and be saved,     all the ends of the earth!     For I am God, and there is no other. By myself I have sworn;     from my mouth has gone out in righteousness     a word that shall not return: ‘<<<To me>>> every knee shall bow,     every tongue shall swear allegiance.’ Isaiah 45:22-23 There’s a difference between what going on in 2 Samuel 8 and what Isaiah 45 is talking about. Isaiah 45 is a bigger picture than 2 Samuel 8. To give 45:22-23 more context the chapter opens with this. Thus says the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus,     whose right hand I have grasped, to subdue nations before him     and to loose the belts of kings, to open doors before him     that gates may not be closed: “I will go before you     and level the exalted places, I will break in pieces the doors of bronze     and cut through the bars of iron, I will give you the treasures of darkness     and the hoards in secret places, that you may know that it is I, the Lord,     the God of Israel, who call you by your name. For the sake of my servant Jacob,     and Israel my chosen, I call you by your name,     I name you, though you do not know me. Isaiah 45:1-4 If you’re an ancient near eastern singer-psalm writer and you want write a song about what it would have felt like for David to experience Isaiah 45 it would go like Psalm 60. Because David would be thinking…”Cyrus?”…”my anointed?”…”whose right hand I have grasped?”… first line that comes to mind as you channel David and play single notes. Have you not rejected us, O God?     You do not go forth, O God, with our armies…hum hum hum… That your beloved ones may be delivered,     give salvation by your right hand and answer us! Another line and you like it. What else? What was next?…”to subdue nations before him”…“I will go before you     and level the exalted places”… David was perplexed but he’s starting to see the bigger picture. Hum hum…Oh, grant us help against the foe,     for vain is the salvation of man!   With God we shall do valiantly;     it is he who will tread down our foes. This is coming along nicely. Others could relate to this and find comfort in these trying days. So you know before you finish that you would record this psalm…if you only had a studio. Love this statement from the deeper dive. “Psalm 60 offers us a prayer and a way to find relief by talking with God. He is always there, waiting to meet us. All we must do is open our hearts and engage in conversation with Him. Through faith we can find victory and peace.” Good morning Cait. I really enjoyed your devotional this morning.
LD

Lindsey Driscoll

Great devo today Cait reminding us we can find victory and peace only through God. It’s interesting to think of Israel’s neighboring borders in verse 60: Moab, Edom, and Philistia are all enemies of Israel, yet here the land is all noted as the Lords. If Moab is the washbasin where God washes his feet, the Lord definitely has authority there. He owns all of Edom by the contractural sandal toss. Psalm 24:1 reminds me the Lord is sovereign over all the earth, all rulers, all peoples. I can take a deep breath and rest in Gods sovereignty over all the earth, even the enemies of the Lord, knowing “with God we will gain the victory.” Thank you Lord for preserving David’s song for teaching Israel that only with God there will be victory over a battle he has already won.
WP

WYMAN POE

For 3 strait years, the Bible study I have been a part of has included Psalms. Growing up in the church, psalms was more of a icing on the cake study, pick out the sweet parts. Now as I overlay Samuel, Chronicles and Kings I see the layers underneath the icing. I can't imagine the toll it takes on anyone's outlook to be constantly on edge, constantly watching everyday for someone wanting to kill you, friends and foes. It seems David is more at ease with his life and trusting God when he is preparing or in these large battles. Being king is or was a huge burden, beginning with Saul. Saul didn't have the foundation of God' to be truly reliant on His power. I think of living in that region, even today, the constant conflict and threat of life is beyond my comprehension. We have lived in a beautiful country, free from foreign threats on our soil, but we lax in following Jesus. I have never been the deep,painful struggles of life like Sue Bohlin, who is an inspiration to me. Always reliant on her faith community and the love and peace of Jesus. Thank you to all the people who contribute here on JTJ. And to Amy who always answers all the questions
MA

Maryann Adams

Thank you, Cait! Your devo contains such an important message we need to be reminded of daily: "He is always there, waiting to meet us." The statement about Churchill's/David's understanding that "human efforts alone could not secure a victory" was especially helpful for a personal situation I'm navigating presently. Reminded me of Ps 20:7: Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright. And...I very much relate to your love of travel/exploration, meeting new people, a crowded table!
SB

Sue Bohlin

Such a good devo, Cait! "David recognized that defeating the Ammonites required God to go before him. It's a reminder that we often rely on our strength to get through each day, which can leave us facing burnout, anxiety, depression, or whatever your struggle may be." I still have some Turkish lira from my cruise to Greece and Turkey. These paper bills are absolutely WORTHLESS in the United States because you need U.S. currency here. The lira look like, and function exactly like, Monopoly money. Printed pieces of paper, no more. This foreign currency reminds me of our own human strength, which has zero value in God's kingdom economy. Relying on our own strength results in "burnout, anxiety, depression, or whatever your struggle may be." Relying on our own strength is what the New Testament calls flesh, which Jesus said profits NOTHING (John 6:63). Just like Turkish lira can buy or accomplish NOTHING in this country. One of the up sides of this horrible time of grief and loss for us is that I am aware of my own "Turkish lira" and how completely worthless it is. On my own, my brain can't be trusted and I am running low on energy all the time. (The other night I was so exhausted I was asleep by 8:30 and forgot to take out my contacts before sleeping almost 12 hours. My gunky, foggy blurred vision the next morning was a sweetly funny peek from the Holy Spirit at what a mess I am without His strength.) Wyman, thank you for the shout out. You are so so dear!
AL

Amy Lowther

1. Nothing. 2. Prayer is a good reminder. Verses learned in reading the Bible or in listening to sermons are also good reminders. Psalm 86:15 is good and says, “But you, O Lord, are a God  merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” Isaiah 41:10 is also good and says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand”. 3. Psalm 60 shows we can each have purpose but we still need God. Cait - Thank you for sharing your ideas. You make a good point in saying, “Psalm 60 offers us a prayer and a way to find relief by talking with God. He is always there, waiting to meet us. All we must do is open our hearts and engage in conversation with Him. Through faith we can find victory and peace.” Wonderful!