Psalm 20:7

Psalm 20:7 (NKJV) states: “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the LORD our God.”

Interpretation and Commentary:

This verse is part of a prayer made by the assembled people of Israel before a battle [1]. The psalm speaks in the first-person plural (We) in Psalm 20:1–5 and 20:7–9 [2]. The first-person singular (I) of 20:6 is likely the response of David himself or the High Priest on his behalf [2].

The verse contrasts reliance on worldly power and military might (“chariots and horses”) with trust in God’s divine power. In the context of Reformed Evangelical Christianity, this verse underscores the doctrine of total dependence on God’s grace. It echoes the Reformed belief in God’s sovereignty, where human efforts and strengths are secondary to God’s will [12].

Application to Modern Christian Living:

In today’s context, “chariots and horses” are symbols of human strength, resources, or strategies we often rely on. These could include wealth, status, education, or even our abilities. However, the verse reminds us that true security and victory come from remembering and trusting in the name of the LORD our God [1].

This verse encourages Christians to trust in God rather than in human abilities or resources. It reminds us that our strength and success ultimately come from God [9]. This aligns with the Reformed Evangelical emphasis on living a life of faith, grounded in God’s grace and sovereignty [12].

Bibliography:

1. BibleRef.com Commentary on Psalm 20:7
2. David Guzik’s Study Guide for Psalm 20
3. OpenBible.info Cross References for Psalm 20:7
4. The Gospel Coalition Article on Reformed Evangelicalism
5. Our Banner Article on Psalm 20

1. What does Psalm 20:7 mean? | BibleRef.com
2. Study Guide for Psalm 20 by David Guzik – Blue Letter Bible
3. What I Mean When I Call Myself a “Reformed Evangelical”
4. Psalm 20 – Strength & Purpose Comes from God – Our Banner
5. What does Psalm 20:7 mean? | BibleRef.com
6. Study Guide for Psalm 20 by David Guzik – Blue Letter Bible
7. Ps 20:7 Cross References (14 Verses) – OpenBible.info
8. What I Mean When I Call Myself a “Reformed Evangelical”
9. Psalm 20 – Strength & Purpose Comes from God – Our Banner
10. Psalm 20,Psalm 7 ESV – Trust in the Name of the LORD Our God – Bible …
11. Psalm 20:7 Commentaries: Some boast in chariots and some in horses, But …
12. Psalms 20:7 KJV | King James Version – New Christian Bible Study
13. PSALMS CHAPTER 20 KJV – King James Bible Online
14. How to Apply the Psalms to Every Situation In Your Life – iBelieve
15. How to Apply a Psalm to Your Life – Crosswalk
16. An Overview of the Study of Imprecatory Psalms: Reformed and …
17. What does it mean to be Reformed Evangelical? – Mark Thompson