Psalms 60:9

Who will bring me into the strong city? who will lead me into Edom?

Psalms 60:9 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of a lament attributed to King David, likely written during a time of national conflict and distress in Israel’s history. Many believe that it was written following a setback in David’s military campaigns to conquer Edom, a neighbouring kingdom. Geographically, Edom was a rugged territory located southeast of Israel, known for its seemingly impregnable fortresses built high into the rocky cliffs. The strong city mentioned in the verse refers to a fortified capital or primary stronghold of the Edomites.

Meaning

David expresses his longing for guidance and assistance from God. By asking who will bring him into the strong city and lead him into Edom, he acknowledges his own limitations. From a military standpoint, breaching such a heavily fortified position was an impossible task for an army relying solely on its own strength. Therefore, David’s questions are not a call for human volunteers or a better military strategy, but a declaration of his dependence on the Lord. He recognises that victory cannot be achieved by his own strength or military might alone. Instead, he looks to God for guidance, deliverance, and victory over his enemies.

Application

The fortified city of Edom stands as a symbol of any formidable adversary, intractable problem, or spiritual stronghold. Just as David knew he could not conquer Edom without the Lord going before him, believers must recognize their own inadequacies when dealing with the spiritual and practical battles of life. When facing our own fortified cities, our response should not be self-reliance or despair. Instead, we must turn our gaze upward, recognizing that our victory depends on God’s power. It is an invitation to submit our most difficult challenges to the Lord, trusting that He alone has the power to lead us through the impenetrable walls we encounter.