Psalms 21:12 Commentary

Verse (KJV): "For thou shalt make them turn their back, when thou shalt make ready thy arrows upon thy strings against the face of them."

Introduction

Psalms 21 is a royal psalm reflecting on the victory and strength given to the king by God. In verse 12, the focus shifts to the enemies of the king, conveying a powerful imagery of God’s judgment and protection. This commentary will delve into insights from public domain commentators to explore the meaning of this verse and its implications for contemporary readers.

Theological Insights

• Contextual Understanding

  Matthew Henry emphasizes the context of royal psalms, specifically pointing out that Psalm 21 celebrates the victories granted to the king by God. The psalm expresses confidence in divine support against adversaries, underscoring the belief that God will turn the foes of the king to flee in defeat.

• Metaphorical Imagery

  Albert Barnes elucidates the metaphor of arrows. In ancient warfare, arrows were potent symbols of divine judgment and intervention. Here, the ‘arrows’ reflect God's readiness to act against the wicked. The phrase "turn their back" indicates the confusion and panic that God can instill in the hearts of those who oppose His anointed.

• The Assurance of God’s Protection

  Adam Clarke points out that the underlying message of this verse is the assurance of God’s protective hand over His chosen leaders. The preparation of ‘arrows’ signifies that God is always at the ready to defend and support His people, illustrating an active role in the spiritual and physical battles faced by believers.

Exegetical Notes

• Translation and Meaning

  The expression "turn their back" suggests a retreat or flight from the battlefield, portraying the enemies' defeat. The Hebrew term implies not just physical retreat, but also a spiritual bending before God's authority.

• God's Strategy in Warfare

  This verse can be seen as an illustration of divine strategy in warfare. Whereas human leaders strategize based on resources and might, the psalmist depicts a God who prepares weapons of judgement that can cause foes to scatter even before the first arrow is launched. This underlines the divine sovereignty at play in conflict.

Practical Implications for Believers

• Trusting God in Times of Conflict

  Pastors and theologians can draw from this verse the profound lesson of trusting God in the face of adversary attacks. Like the king in this psalm, believers are reminded that God is actively working on their behalf, even amidst overwhelming odds.

• Spiritual Readiness

  This verse calls for a sense of preparedness in the spiritual life. Just as God readies His arrows, believers are encouraged to equip themselves with faith, prayer, and the Word of God, recognizing that spiritual warfare is an ongoing reality.

• Implication on Leadership

  For church leaders, this commentary seems to hold a special weight. They are highlighted as under God's watchful eye and empowered to lead with divine wisdom. The awareness of God’s readiness to act against adversaries can embolden leaders to remain faithful in their calling.

Conclusion

Psalms 21:12 serves as a powerful reminder of God's intervention in the affairs of men, particularly regarding those in leadership and His own people. By drawing from insights provided by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we see a rich tapestry of meaning that resonates with the themes of divine protection, readiness for battle, and the ultimate victory of God's purposes. This verse invites believers to revel in the assurance that, despite adversities, God stands ready to defend and support His own.