Broken Defenses Ready Us in Psalm 60 for Our Valiant God

“O God, you have rejected us, broken our defenses; you have been angry; oh, restore us.” Psalm 60:1

God can take it. Let your complaints be known to him. But, watch to see what he does. He is breaking down your defenses for your good. His anger has been placed on his Son, and we are restored.

God makes the land quake in respect. It is torn open. The land staggers. The Lord’s creation has been exposed to difficult experiences. However, he has not left himself without a witness (Acts 14:17).

“You have set up a banner for those who fear you, that they may flee to it from the bow. That your beloved ones may be delivered, give salvation by your right hand and answer us!” Psalm 60:4-5

The rebellious bow their backs, but those who fear God gather under his banner. The righteous flee attack and rest in their restoration. His beloved are rescued and salvation is in his right hand. He answers us with a resounding answer. We are his people.

“God has spoken in his holiness: ‘…I shout in triumph.’” Psalm 60:6, 8

All the peoples of the earth belong to the Lord. He speaks it to his people in his preeminence. He shouts in triumph over all our enemies. He divides Shechem, portions out the Vale of Succoth, claims Gilead and Manasseh, calls Ephraim his helmet and Moab his washbasin. He then says he casts his shoe upon Edom and shouts in triumph over Philistia.

“Who will bring me to the fortified city? Who will lead me to Edom? Have you not rejected us, O God? You do not go forth, O God, with our armies.” Psalm 60: 9-10

David begins to ask questions. He needs answers. David is being plundered. He needs a city that is protected. He needs the Omnipotent One to lead him. He asks if God is rejecting him. God does not send his victory with David’s armies. David is desperate. If you’re facing loss, you understand. If you’re walking a long road of pain, you understand. If you’re experiencing brokenness, you understand David’s desperation.

In the midst of loss, you feel as if you’ve been plundered. You need a hiding place. You question God. You feel personally the rejection, the brokenness, and even what seems to be God’s anger.

And you cry out in lament to God.

“Oh, grant us help against the foe, for vain is the salvation of man!” Psalm 60:11

Salvation comes from God alone. You are right to turn to him in lament. Complain to him with respect. Ask him for the protection you need. But confidently trust him to help you against this foe. Seeking salvation among the sons of men is vanity. Turn to God. Only.

Seek salvation in God alone. Our Protector tramples our foes beneath his feet and does valiantly on our behalf. We truly receive grace, mercy, peace comfort, hope, and love. Only from him.

Salvation is ours.

“With God we shall do valiantly; it is he who will tread down our foes.” Psalm 60:12