Psalm 20: May the Lord Answer You – A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Divine Help

Executive Summary ✨

Psalm 20, a prayer for the king before battle, resonates deeply with the Coptic Orthodox understanding of divine assistance. It’s more than just a plea for victory; it’s a testament to trusting in the name of the Lord, not in earthly power. This psalm, rich in symbolism and prophetic undertones, speaks to the ultimate King – Christ – and to every believer who faces trials. We explore how God answers in times of trouble, sends help from His sanctuary, and remembers our offerings. Furthermore, we delve into the significance of boasting in the name of the Lord, our God, and the assurance of His salvation. The psalm’s concluding cry, “Save, Lord! May the King answer us when we call,” is a powerful expression of unwavering faith in God’s providential care. This detailed commentary will unpack each verse, revealing its timeless spiritual significance and offering practical applications for navigating the challenges of modern life, strengthening our reliance on divine help during difficult times.

Psalm 20, a powerful supplication for victory, is not merely an ancient battle cry. It’s a timeless prayer for anyone facing adversity, a reminder that true strength comes from trust in the name of the Lord. This commentary explores the psalm’s profound spiritual meaning, offering a Coptic Orthodox perspective on divine assistance and its relevance to our lives today.

Commentary Sections 📜

Psalm 20:1 (KJV)

The Lord hear thee in the day of trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee;

Psalm 20:1 (NKJV)

May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble; May the name of the God of Jacob defend you;

The psalm opens with a fervent plea, “The Lord hear thee in the day of trouble.” This isn’t a generic wish, but a deep longing for divine intervention during hardship. The phrase “God of Jacob” is particularly significant. Jacob, a man who wrestled with God and prevailed (Genesis 32:24-30), embodies perseverance and faith. Invoking the “God of Jacob” reminds us of God’s covenant faithfulness and His willingness to answer those who earnestly seek Him.

Origen, in his Homilies on Genesis, reflects on Jacob’s struggle, saying, “καὶ ἐπάλευσεν ἄνθρωπός τις μετ᾽ αὐτοῦ ἕως πρωί. (And a certain man wrestled with him until daybreak)” (Origen, *Hom. Gen.* 4.3). This emphasizes the persistent prayer necessary to receive divine help.

Spiritual Application: When facing trials, remember the “God of Jacob.” Persist in prayer, knowing that He hears and responds to those who seek Him with a sincere heart. Reflect on the times God has helped you in the past; this will encourage you to remain faithful and hopeful.

Psalm 20:2 (KJV)

Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion;

Psalm 20:2 (NKJV)

May He send you help from the sanctuary, And strengthen you out of Zion;

This verse speaks of divine assistance emanating from two key locations: the sanctuary and Zion. The sanctuary, representing God’s holy dwelling place, symbolizes His presence and power. Zion, the city of Jerusalem, was not only a physical location but also the spiritual heart of Israel. Help coming from the sanctuary speaks of God’s direct intervention, while strength from Zion signifies the support and encouragement of the community of faith. God’s help is not just individual but communal, strengthening us through the Body of Christ.

St. Cyril of Alexandria comments on the importance of the Church as the new Zion: “τὴν γὰρ Ἐκκλησίαν ἔφησεν εἶναι Σιών, ὡς ἐν αὐτῇ τὸν Θεὸν κατοικοῦντα. (For he said the Church is Zion, as God dwells in it.)” (St. Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Isaiah*, Book 4).

Spiritual Application: Seek God’s help not only in personal prayer but also through the sacraments and fellowship of the Church. Draw strength from the community of believers, remembering that you are not alone in your struggles. Remember that spiritual growth is often linked to faithful attendance and participation in Church life. For instance, consider utilizing dohost.us services to find and connect with your local parish.

Psalm 20:3 (KJV)

Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice; Selah.

Psalm 20:3 (NKJV)

May He remember all your offerings, And accept your burnt sacrifice; Selah

This verse implies that past faithfulness is not forgotten by God. The “offerings” and “burnt sacrifices” represent acts of worship, devotion, and obedience. God remembers these acts and, in His grace, accepts them. The word “Selah,” a Hebrew term often found in the Psalms, signifies a pause for reflection. It invites us to contemplate the significance of our actions and their impact on our relationship with God. This is a profound reminder that our spiritual walk is not defined by a single moment, but by a continuous pattern of devotion.

In the Old Testament, offerings were a way to express repentance and gratitude. The acceptance of the sacrifice symbolized God’s forgiveness and favor. This doesn’t mean God is bound by sacrifices, but that He sees and rewards those whose hearts are turned to Him.

Spiritual Application: Live a life of consistent faithfulness, offering your time, talents, and resources to God. Remember that even small acts of kindness and service, done with a pure heart, are pleasing to Him. Take time to reflect on your spiritual journey and identify areas where you can deepen your devotion. Do not despair if you feel unworthy; God’s grace is sufficient.

Psalm 20:4 (KJV)

Grant thee according to thine own heart, and fulfil all thy counsel.

Psalm 20:4 (NKJV)

May He grant you according to your heart’s desire, And fulfill all your purpose.

This verse expresses a beautiful desire: that God would grant the king “according to thine own heart, and fulfil all thy counsel.” This doesn’t mean God automatically grants every whim, but rather that He aligns the desires of the faithful with His own will. When our hearts are aligned with God’s, our prayers and desires become reflections of His perfect plan. The word “counsel” signifies God’s purpose and intention for the king’s life, reflecting a higher calling beyond personal ambition.

St. Augustine comments, “Da mihi quod amas; ergo, da mihi teipsum. (Give me what you love; therefore, give me yourself.)” (St. Augustine, *Confessions*, Book 10, Ch. 27). Augustine highlights that true desire is for God Himself, not just earthly blessings.

Spiritual Application: Seek God’s will in all aspects of your life. Pray for discernment and guidance, asking Him to align your desires with His perfect plan. Remember that true fulfillment comes from surrendering your will to God’s, trusting that He knows what is best for you. Reflect on your motivations and ensure that they are rooted in love for God and others.

Psalm 20:5 (KJV)

We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners: the Lord fulfil all thy petitions.

Psalm 20:5 (NKJV)

We will rejoice in your salvation, And in the name of our God we will set up our banners! May the Lord fulfill all your petitions.

This verse expresses unwavering confidence in God’s salvation. The act of “setting up our banners” symbolizes victory, triumph, and public proclamation of faith. It’s a bold declaration that our strength and victory come not from ourselves, but from God. The verse also reiterates the prayer that God would fulfill all the king’s petitions, emphasizing the importance of persistent and faithful prayer. The emphasis on rejoicing highlights the joy that accompanies true faith.

The image of banners is linked to the Exodus, where the Israelites were victorious over the Egyptians through God’s power. It is also reminiscent of the resurrection of Christ and his victory over death, something Coptic Orthodox Christians celebrate in every Divine Liturgy.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a spirit of joy and gratitude for God’s salvation. Boldly proclaim your faith, not out of arrogance, but out of a genuine desire to share the good news of Christ. Remember that your testimony can inspire others to seek God. Even in difficult circumstances, remember to rejoice in the hope of salvation.

Psalm 20:6 (KJV)

Now know I that the Lord saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand.

Psalm 20:6 (NKJV)

Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven With the saving strength of His right hand.

This verse is a declaration of certainty: “Now know I that the Lord saveth his anointed.” The “anointed” refers to the king, but ultimately points to Christ, the Messiah, the Anointed One. The verse emphasizes God’s unwavering commitment to save and protect those who are faithful to Him. God answers “from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand,” highlighting the divine power and authority that are brought to bear on behalf of those He loves. This is a profound statement of God’s providential care.

The “right hand” of God is often used to denote power and authority. In the book of Exodus, God saves the Israelites by His mighty right hand (Exodus 15:6). In the New Testament, the risen Christ sits at the right hand of the Father (Mark 16:19).

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s power to save and protect you. Remember that you are “anointed” through baptism and chrismation, set apart for His service. When facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles, draw strength from the knowledge that God is fighting for you. Cultivate an unwavering belief in God’s ability to deliver you from evil.

Psalm 20:7 (KJV)

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.

Psalm 20:7 (NKJV)

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord our God.

This verse presents a stark contrast: “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.” Chariots and horses represent worldly power and military might. The psalmist acknowledges that some rely on these things, but declares that their trust is in the Lord. Remembering “the name of the Lord our God” signifies invoking His presence, power, and covenant faithfulness. It’s a deliberate choice to place reliance on God rather than on fleeting earthly strength.

This verse is a challenge to idolatry of all forms. Anything we place above God, whether material possessions, social status, or even our own abilities, becomes an idol. True freedom comes from placing God at the center of our lives.

Spiritual Application: Examine where you place your trust. Are you relying on worldly things or on God? Consciously choose to remember the name of the Lord in all your thoughts, words, and actions. Refuse to be swayed by the allure of earthly power or material wealth. Instead, seek true riches in a relationship with God.

Psalm 20:8 (KJV)

They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.

Psalm 20:8 (NKJV)

They have bowed down and fallen; But we have risen and stand upright.

This verse highlights the ultimate outcome of trusting in worldly power versus trusting in God. “They are brought down and fallen,” refers to those who rely on chariots and horses. In contrast, “we are risen, and stand upright,” refers to those who trust in the Lord. This isn’t just a physical posture, but a spiritual one. It signifies resilience, strength, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity. Those who place their hope in God will ultimately prevail.

The imagery of rising up is linked to the resurrection of Christ. Through His death and resurrection, He has conquered sin and death, and given us the hope of eternal life. Similarly, when we trust in Christ, we are able to overcome the challenges of this world.

Spiritual Application: When facing setbacks and failures, remember that God is able to lift you up. Draw strength from the resurrection of Christ, knowing that you are not defined by your past mistakes. Cultivate a spirit of resilience and perseverance, trusting that God will ultimately bring you to victory.

Psalm 20:9 (KJV)

Save, Lord: let the king hear us when we call.

Psalm 20:9 (NKJV)

Save, Lord! May the King answer us when we call.

The psalm concludes with a powerful cry: “Save, Lord: let the king hear us when we call.” This is a plea for divine intervention and a confident assertion that God will hear and answer. The reference to “the king” can be understood both literally (the earthly king) and figuratively (Christ, the ultimate King). It’s a prayer for both temporal and spiritual salvation, trusting that God will respond to our needs. This cry is a testament to the enduring power of prayer.

The Eastern Orthodox Church often uses the phrase “Lord have mercy” in its prayers and hymns. This is a similar plea for God’s grace and intervention. It expresses our dependence on God’s mercy and love.

Spiritual Application: Never cease to pray. Even in times of discouragement, continue to cry out to God, trusting that He hears and responds. Remember that prayer is not just a duty, but a powerful means of connecting with God and receiving His grace. Make prayer a central part of your daily life.

Trust in the Name of the Lord: Key Reflections 💡

Psalm 20 provides valuable insights into relying on God’s power during challenging times.

• God Hears Our Prayers: Psalm 20 reminds us that God is attentive to our cries for help in times of trouble.
• Divine Assistance: The psalm underscores the importance of seeking divine help from the sanctuary and Zion, symbolizing God’s presence and the support of the Church.
• Faithfulness Remembered: God remembers our past offerings and sacrifices, indicating the significance of consistent devotion.
• Aligned Desires: The psalmist expresses the hope that God will grant according to our heart’s desires, aligning our will with His perfect plan.
• Rejoicing in Salvation: We are called to rejoice in God’s salvation and boldly proclaim our faith, setting up our banners in His name.
• Trust Over Power: Psalm 20 contrasts trusting in worldly power (chariots and horses) with remembering and relying on the name of the Lord our God.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about Psalm 20 and its practical implications:

• Q: How can I apply Psalm 20 to my daily life?

  A: You can apply Psalm 20 by consistently praying for divine assistance in your challenges, remembering God’s past faithfulness, and aligning your desires with His will. Trust in Him over worldly solutions and cultivate a spirit of joy and gratitude for His salvation. Make the words of this Psalm a personal prayer to help to remember Gods Love.

• Q: What does it mean to “remember the name of the Lord our God”?

  A: “Remembering the name of the Lord our God” means invoking His presence, power, and covenant faithfulness in our thoughts, words, and actions. It signifies placing reliance on God rather than on fleeting earthly strength or our own abilities. It is about calling upon His character and promises in times of need.

• Q: How does Psalm 20 relate to the Coptic Orthodox understanding of prayer and salvation?

  A: In the Coptic Orthodox tradition, Psalm 20 aligns with our belief in the power of intercessory prayer and the necessity of divine grace for salvation. We seek God’s help in all aspects of life and trust in His mercy and love to deliver us from evil. The psalm reinforces our reliance on God’s providential care and our confidence in His saving power.

• Q: Why does the Psalm talk about offerings and sacrifices? Is that relevant to modern Christians?

  A: While we no longer offer literal animal sacrifices as in the Old Testament, the principle remains relevant. Our offerings now are our time, talents, resources, and, most importantly, a contrite heart. When we dedicate these to God, it’s a symbolic sacrifice reflecting our devotion and surrender to His will. It’s about giving back to God from what He has given us, as a sign of love and gratitude.

Conclusion ✨

Psalm 20 is a timeless reminder that true strength lies not in earthly power, but in trust in the name of the Lord. It teaches us to seek God’s help in times of trouble, to remember His past faithfulness, and to align our desires with His perfect will. The psalm’s concluding cry, “Save, Lord! May the King answer us when we call,” is a powerful expression of unwavering faith in God’s providential care. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we can apply these timeless truths to our daily lives, trusting that God hears our prayers and will ultimately deliver us from all harm. Let us embrace this Psalm as a source of encouragement and hope, knowing that God is always with us, ready to answer our call. Remember the words of the Psalm and allow them to guide your relationship with God.

Tags

Psalm 20, Trust in God, Divine Help, Coptic Orthodox, Prayer, Salvation, Faith, Anointing, Anointed One, Strength, God of Jacob

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Explore Psalm 20: May the Lord Answer You – A Coptic Orthodox commentary on divine help, trust in the Lord, and finding strength in God during times of trouble.