Psalms 68:20

“He that is our God is the God of salvation, and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death.”

Psalm 68:20 (KJV) says: “He that is our God is the God of salvation, and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death.”

Context and Background:Psalm 68 is a song of triumph and praise to God, celebrating His power, majesty, and deliverance. It was traditionally attributed to King David, who wrote many of the psalms. This particular verse emphasises the sovereignty of God over life and death.

Understanding the Verse:

• “He that is our God is the God of salvation”:

This phrase acknowledges that the God of Israel is the God who saves. The Israelites recognised God as their deliverer and the one who provides salvation. It affirms God’s role as the source of rescue, both in physical and spiritual senses. This verse highlights the intimate relationship between God and His people.

b) “Unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death”:

The phrase “the issues from death” refers to the outcomes or escape from death. It recognises that God has control over life and death. He has the power to determine the outcome and bring deliverance from the clutches of death. This highlights God’s authority over the ultimate destiny of His people.

Key Themes and Spiritual Lessons:

• God’s Salvation:

The verse emphasises that God is the source of salvation. It reminds us that salvation is not obtained through our own efforts but through the grace and intervention of God. It encourages us to trust in God’s saving power, both in our temporal challenges and in our eternal destiny.

b) God’s Sovereignty:

The verse emphasises the absolute sovereignty of God over life and death. It reminds us that God holds the ultimate authority and power over all circumstances, even the ones that seem insurmountable or irreversible. This truth brings comfort and assurance, knowing that God is in control.

c) Trusting God in Difficult Times:

As the psalm celebrates God’s triumph and deliverance, it encourages us to place our trust in Him, especially during challenging times. We can find strength and hope in knowing that God has the ability to rescue us from any situation, including the grasp of death itself.

Application:

• Trust in God’s Salvation:

Recognise that salvation comes from God alone. Embrace the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and rely on Him for deliverance from sin, guilt, and eternal separation from God.

b) Surrender to God’s Sovereignty:

Submit to God’s authority in your life, acknowledging that He has control over all circumstances. Trust that He will guide you through difficult situations, providing wisdom, comfort, and deliverance according to His perfect will.

c) Seek God’s Deliverance:

When facing challenging circumstances, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, turn to God in prayer and seek His deliverance. Trust that He can bring you through any trial or tribulation, and rely on His strength to sustain you.

d) Praise and Worship God:

Like the psalmist, express your gratitude and praise to God for His salvation and deliverance. Celebrate His faithfulness, power, and sovereignty in your life and worship Him for who He is.