Psalms 28:8

“The Lord is their strength, and he is the saving strength of his anointed.”

Psalm 28:8 (KJV) says:“The Lord is their strength, and he is the saving strength of his anointed.”

Context:Psalm 28 is attributed to King David, and it is categorised as a psalm of lament. In this psalm, David cries out to the Lord for help and deliverance from his enemies. The verses leading up to verse 8 express David’s trust in God’s intervention and his desire for justice.

The Lord is their strength:In this verse, David acknowledges that the Lord is the source of strength for His people. The Hebrew word for “strength” used here is “oz,” which refers to physical, mental, or spiritual strength. It signifies power, might, and support. David recognises that it is through God’s strength that His people can overcome their enemies and face the challenges of life.

He is the saving strength:David further emphasises that the Lord is not only a source of strength but also the saving strength. God’s strength is not just for show or to empower His people, but it is also the means by which He brings salvation and deliverance. The Hebrew term for “saving strength” is “magen yeshu’ah,” which can be translated as “shield of salvation.” This implies that God not only provides the strength needed but also acts as a shield and protector for His anointed ones.

His anointed:The term “His anointed” refers to those whom God has chosen and set apart for a specific purpose. In the Old Testament, “anointed” often refers to kings, priests, and prophets who were consecrated or appointed by God for their respective roles. In the broader sense, it can also represent all God’s people who have been set apart and anointed by His Spirit. In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as the Anointed One (Messiah/Christ) par excellence.

Application:

• Psalm 28:8 encourages believers to recognise that their strength comes from the Lord. As we face challenges, opposition, and struggles in life, we can rely on God’s strength to sustain and empower us. He is not only a provider of strength but also a Savior and Protector. It is through His strength that we find deliverance and salvation.

This verse reminds us to turn to God in times of trouble, seeking His strength and placing our trust in Him. It encourages us to have faith that God will be our source of help and support, regardless of the difficulties we may face.

Overall, Psalm 28:8 serves as a reminder of the faithfulness and power of God, and it invites us to rely on Him as our strength and salvation.