The source of strength or confidence for people in modern times is usually achieved through material things outside of themselves. Whether it is through possessions, power, and wealth. But today we want to reflect that the source of strength and the anchor of our existence is in His provision alone.

Psalm 18:38–51 is not just a story of a king's success in battle. It is a poem of faith, a song of confession that every victory, no matter how small or large, is the fruit of God's unwavering steadfast love. The psalmist doesn't begin this psalm with an account of the strategy, the number of soldiers, or the skill of the troops on the battlefield. He begins with the confession, "You have girded my loins with might for battle". Here we see the image of the enemy falling, running away, and finally being stomped on as a symbol of total defeat. In the ancient world, stomping on the enemy was a symbol of absolute supremacy, but for David, it was not because of him, but because God armed him with strength and courage. Victory is ultimately not about military superiority, but about a relationship with God. Even when the enemies "cried out to the LORD", He did not answer them. Their defeat reflected their spiritual distance from God.

Not stopping at military victory, this passage describes David's leap in status to "ruler of the nations". Instantly, foreigners were subject to him. What does this mean? In the Old Testament world, it signaled the divine mandate for Israel to be a light to the Gentiles (cf. Genesis 12:3). David, as the anointed king, became the channel for the manifestation of God's power on earth. Furthermore, in verse 46 & 49, there is spiritual joy. “ The LORD lives! Blessed is my rock!" A declaration that reminds us that in the midst of uncertainty, God remains a sure footing. Not just a metaphor, ‘Rock Mountain’ is a symbol of permanence, stability, and sanctuary. God not only defended David, but lifted him up, saved him from violence, and made his life a testimony.

Friends of the Bible, let us read Psalm 18:38–51 not as a glorification of war or violence, but rather as praise for a God who gives victory and is faithful to his promises. In it we learn that true victory is not about defeating an opponent, but about recognizing who gives strength, who is worthy of praise, and who is the source of all salvation. The source of our strength is ultimately in the God who created, formed, and loves us always.