JUNE 29, 2026 – BANNER

READ: Ps. 60:1-12: … Through God we will do valiantly …

This Psalm was composed after great victories over Syrians and Edomites (2 Sam. 8). David has now already been king over all Israel for several years. Jerusalem has been conquered, the Philistines have been defeated, the Ark has been brought to Jerusalem, and to David was promised the inheritance of an eternal kingship, which is fulfilled in the Messiah as David’s great Son (2 Sam. 7).

But before the great victories mentioned in the opening verses there had also been setbacks. Soldiers were killed, there were defeats, possibly with regard to Edom. There were also terrifying earthquakes, or developments comparable with them (vs.4). Through these matters the people were not as strong and battle-ready as they should have been.

Thus even in a time of great blessing and prosperity there were enough events that caused care and sorrow, even to such an extent that it was cried out: has the LORD forsaken us? David speaks about this in verses 3-5.

But now all this is forgotten. Massive victories have been achieved as the work of the LORD. He was a banner for  the Israelite armies.. A banner or standard is a long flag placed on a high pole around which the armies gathered in battle. Here this means that the LORD Himself fought and gave so much strength and unity in the army that great victories were achieved. Now there is again rest, contentment, and joy in the land.

Thus it may be established that together with the trials the LORD also provided the deliverance. That also has significance for us. Let us continue to seek our strength and help with the Lord, especially  when there are times of trial.

1 Cor. 10:13 says: “And God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

In verse 8ff David speaks about the fact that God shall fulfill His promises also concerning the extent of the land. For this purpose He shall be with His people. Then let them continue not to place their hope in men but in Him (vs.11-14).

To what extent is God also now “a banner”?
Singing: Ps. 60:1,2,5