Psalm 108:12

Give us aid against the enemy, for the help of man is worthless.

Study Bible

Give us aid against the enemy
This phrase is a plea for divine assistance in the face of adversaries. Throughout the Old Testament, Israel often faced physical enemies, such as neighboring nations that threatened their security. This request for aid reflects a deep reliance on God rather than on military might or alliances. In the broader biblical context, enemies can also symbolize spiritual adversaries, such as sin and Satan. The psalmist's cry for help underscores the belief that true victory comes from God alone. This theme is echoed in passages like 2 Chronicles 20:12, where Jehoshaphat prays for God's intervention against overwhelming odds.

for the help of man is worthless
This phrase highlights the futility of relying solely on human strength or wisdom. In biblical history, Israel often experienced failure when they trusted in human alliances or their own power instead of God. The phrase serves as a reminder of the limitations of human efforts without divine support. This sentiment is mirrored in Jeremiah 17:5, which warns against placing trust in human beings rather than in the Lord. Theologically, this reflects the broader biblical narrative that emphasizes God's sovereignty and the necessity of faith in Him. It also points to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who provides the ultimate victory over sin and death, surpassing any human capability.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 108, David was the second king of Israel, known for his deep relationship with God and his role as a warrior and leader.

2. Israel
The nation of Israel, often facing enemies and challenges, is the context in which this plea for divine assistance is made.

3. Enemies
The adversaries of Israel, representing any force or situation that opposes God's people.

4. God
The ultimate source of help and deliverance, contrasted with the insufficiency of human aid.

5. Human Help
Represents the limitations of relying solely on human strength and wisdom in the face of spiritual and physical battles.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God
Recognize that true victory and deliverance come from God, not from human efforts or alliances.

Prayer for Divine Assistance
Encourage believers to seek God's help in all situations, acknowledging our limitations and His omnipotence.

Understanding Human Limitations
Reflect on the futility of relying solely on human strength and wisdom, and the importance of seeking God's guidance.

Faith in God's Sovereignty
Trust in God's ability to deliver and provide, even when human resources seem inadequate.

Spiritual Warfare
Equip believers to engage in spiritual battles with the understanding that victory comes through God's power, not human might.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Psalm 108:12 challenge our natural inclination to rely on human resources and strategies?

2. In what ways can we practically seek God's aid in our daily battles, both spiritual and physical?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced the insufficiency of human help. How did turning to God change the situation?

4. How can the themes of Psalm 108:12 be applied to the challenges faced by the church today?

5. Compare Psalm 108:12 with Isaiah 31:1. What insights do these verses provide about the consequences of relying on human strength over divine assistance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 60:11
This verse is nearly identical to Psalm 108:12, emphasizing the theme of seeking God's help over human assistance.

2 Chronicles 20:12
Jehoshaphat's prayer acknowledges the powerlessness of human effort without God's intervention, similar to the plea in Psalm 108:12.

Isaiah 31:1
Warns against relying on human strength and alliances instead of seeking God's help, echoing the sentiment of Psalm 108:12.

John 15:5
Jesus teaches that apart from Him, we can do nothing, reinforcing the idea that divine help is essential.