5 Understandable Words for Today

“…do not let man prevail…” Psalm 9:19

There is overcoming power found in the praises of God’s people. It was the shouts of praise that brought down the walls of Jericho, and the songs of praise that brought release to Peter in the Jerusalem jail. Praise is the prelude to victory. As David introduced this psalm with praise, so he anticipates the victory his lifestyle of praise will bring.

After re-articulating his faith that God will not forget the cry of the afflicted (pressed down or persecuted), David prays for God to notice his own affliction by those who hate him (v.13a). He expected God’s deliverance so that he might rejoice with his friends and fellow worshippers over God’s hand of deliverance (v.14). David’s enemies prepared a trap for him which they were ensnared in themselves! David acknowledged God’s intervention and praised Him with the words:

“The Lord has made Himself known; He has executed judgment…” (v.16)

David may have been referring to Absalom’s attempt to remove his father from power. He followed bad advice which God used to bring disaster upon him (read 2 Samuel 17-18).

David then sought to encourage the poor and needy by comparing them to his own plight (v.18). He concluded the psalm with a victory cry:

“Arise, O Lord! Let not man prevail;
    let the nations be judged before you!
  Put them in fear, O Lord!
    Let the nations know that they are but men!”  (vv.19-20)

In our time, there are masses of people seeking asylum for entry into our country. There are still evil despots abusing their authority and power, bringing harm and death to countless people around the world. In our prayers, we should remember the plight of those fleeing the madness of oppression. We should also pray for God to arise in judgment against wicked leaders and their cronies… that they would realize they are but men, and will one day stand before God in judgment.

O, Father in Heaven, DO NOT LET MAN PREVAIL in advancing any evil plans to oppress one’s fellow man. Let these despots and wayward leaders fall into their own trap. Reveal their wickedness before the world, that Your Kingdom would come on earth as it is in Heaven.

Like David, keep praising and praying in faith!