”Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God.
Psalm 146:5New International Version (NIV)
Psalm 146:5 Devotional
Blessed are those whose help is God
Psalm 146:5 reads: Blessed are those whose help is God! That is, those who have their help and hope in God are blessed.
Do not trust men
Nevertheless, the Psalmist starts this Psalm by warning us not to trust in princes, or men, in whom there is no salvation (v. 3). Now, this is not a far-fetched idea because, in 2 Kings 16:5-9, it is recorded that Ahaz the king of Judah sought for help from the king of Assyria when he had been besieged. And the king of Assyria complied with his request.
Thereafter, the Psalmist moves to declare that those who trust in God for their help and hope, instead of trusting in mortal man or princes (as Psalm 146:4 states) are happy. And the reverse is true of course – that those whose help is not from God are not happy (they’re most likely sad).
Therefore, the Psalmist reminds you and me of one important and fundamental thing. That is, that the most powerful of persons in your/the world is still but a creature of the dust. And all their plans, just like themselves, will perish.
Trust in God
Consequently, in a quick rejoinder, he challenges you and me to trust in God. In fact, he reveals that the one whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in God, is blessed.
Therefore, fellow human beings like politicians, authors, and other people, will give us hope, but it will be short-lived. Their offers will not last. Because, you may get fired up and encouraged by what you hear in their messages, and you may find yourself refreshed and hopeful for a season.
Additionally, what is offered by those we consider powerful is not permanent. It is experienced for a short while and then it soon fades away. And we find ourselves back at one.
God’s help is rock-solid sure because when the floods rise, the winds buffet, the devil rages in the air, and our bodies be claimed by the earth, we know and are convinced that He will help us.
Everyone’s yearning
Therefore, while everyone is yearning for help that is reliable and hope that is steadfast, they look for these things from people and other things. But reliable help and firm hope are only in Jesus Christ. And that is why I like the Psalmist’s confession in Psalm 121:1-2, where he confessed that “he lifts up his eyes to the mountains, and his help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth”.
Prayer/Blessing
Lord, thank You that You are everything to me. You are my reliable Help and steadfast Hope. In You, I am protected and provided for.
Help me to trust in You always and in every circumstance of life. Help me to always seek You in everything. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.
Daily Bible Reading
Exodus 8-10 (see How to Read the Bible in One Year or How to Read the Bible (for Beginners))
