How Brokenness is Put to Flight in Psalm 21

“O Lord, in your strength the king rejoices, and in your salvation how greatly he exults!” Psalm 21:1

The God of David meets David, the king, with rich blessings. God gives David the desires of his heart. Nothing withheld. David asked for life, and it was given to him. Long life. A crown of gold upon his head. Crowned king. Nothing good withheld.

But temporal gain is short-lived. Those things are fleeting; but, God’s presence persists and brings joy.

“His glory is great through your salvation; splendor and majesty you bestow on him. For you make him most blessed forever; you make him glad with the joy of your presence.” Psalm 21:5-6

During loss, it’s reassuring to rehearse the splendor and majesty of salvation. Eternity settled. Blessed forever. The joy of Immanuel’s presence gives context to the pain of any loss. Even in loss, I can be made to be glad as I enjoy the presence of the Spirit of God. His steadfast love truly is everlasting. In the face of enemies or tragedies, you can know his presence, as your defender, consumes and swallows them.

Brokenness seems to persist unabated. But it’s only an appearance. As David said to Goliath in 1 Samuel 17:47, “…for the battle is the Lord’s…” and it is not yet complete.

You need the eyes of faith to endure the darkness of loss.

“Though they plan evil against you, though they devise mischief, they will not succeed. For you will put them to flight…” Psalm 21:11-12

No matter the plan leveled against you. No matter the mischief devised for you. These plans will be thwarted. These devious plans will not be successful to rout you. Plans and mischief will be put to flight.

I am reminded of 2 Timothy 2:13 where we read, “…if we are faithless, he remains faithful— for he cannot deny himself.” This strength of salvation does not depend upon me and my own faithfulness. It is as certain as he is faithful. And he cannot deny himself.

In loss, in despair, and in pain, I rejoice and exult like a king. I have received lavish, steadfast love. I am reminded of Exodus 14:13 where, in the face of the Egyptians, Moses told his people, “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will work for you today.”

Fear is real. But stand firm. By faith, open your eyes to see God’s salvation. Then rejoice and exult. Sing and praise God for his power. I’m reminded of a simple chorus, “Be Exalted, O God,” by Brent Chambers. We sing, “Be exalted, O God above the heavens. Let Thy glory be over all the earth…” This is an already-but-not-yet reality. We simply stand in faith, watch, and wait.

David’s summary to this faith-bolstering psalm is to erupt in praise. He seeks to exalt the Lord’s name boldly. He responds to the mighty power of God with songs and praise. Brokenness is overwhelmed with the strength and power of the Lord. He is unchanging, and he is worthy of all our praise.

If you want to put brokenness to flight, doggedly embrace faith in the one who has already accomplished your redemption. And lift your heart, voice, and life in worship.

Hallelujah, what a Savior!

“Be exalted, O Lord, in your strength! We will sing and praise your power.” Psalm 21:13