Psalm 108:13

With God we will perform with valor, and He will trample our enemies.

Study Bible

With God we will perform with valor
This phrase emphasizes the reliance on divine strength rather than human ability. The concept of performing with valor suggests courage and bravery in the face of adversity, which is a recurring theme in the Bible. In the historical context, Israel often faced formidable enemies and challenges, and their victories were attributed to God's intervention. This aligns with passages like Joshua 1:9, where God commands Joshua to be strong and courageous, promising His presence. The idea of valor also connects to the spiritual battles Christians face, as described in Ephesians 6:10-18, where believers are called to put on the full armor of God.

and He will trample our enemies
This phrase reflects the assurance of victory through divine intervention. The imagery of trampling suggests complete and decisive defeat, reminiscent of God's deliverance of Israel from their foes throughout the Old Testament. In a historical context, this can be seen in battles such as those against the Canaanites, where God fought for Israel (Joshua 10:10-11). Theologically, this can be seen as a type of Christ's ultimate victory over sin and death, as prophesied in Genesis 3:15, where the seed of the woman will crush the serpent's head. This victory is fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus' death and resurrection, offering believers hope and assurance of triumph over spiritual enemies.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 108, David was the second king of Israel, known for his military prowess and deep faith in God. This psalm is a combination of parts from Psalms 57 and 60, reflecting David's reliance on God for victory.

2. Israel
The nation of Israel, often facing enemies and challenges, is the context in which this psalm is set. The psalm reflects the collective experience of the Israelites seeking God's help in overcoming adversaries.

3. Enemies
The adversaries of Israel, both physical and spiritual, represent the challenges and opposition faced by God's people. In the psalm, these enemies are those whom God will trample underfoot.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God for Victory
We are reminded that true victory comes from God. In our battles, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, we must rely on His strength rather than our own.

God's Sovereignty Over Enemies
The verse assures us of God's power to trample our enemies. This teaches us to trust in His sovereignty and justice, knowing that He will ultimately prevail over evil.

Courage Through Faith
"Perform with valor" suggests that our courage is rooted in faith. As believers, we are called to act bravely, trusting that God is with us in every challenge.

Spiritual Warfare Awareness
Recognizing that our struggles are not just physical but spiritual, we are encouraged to equip ourselves with God's armor and stand firm in faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding David's reliance on God in battle encourage you in your personal struggles today?

2. In what ways can you apply the concept of "performing with valor" in your daily life, especially when facing challenges?

3. How does the assurance of God trampling our enemies influence your perspective on justice and deliverance?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to deepen your dependence on God, as seen in Psalm 108:13?

5. How can the themes of Psalm 108:13 be connected to the spiritual armor described in Ephesians 6:10-18, and how can this understanding impact your approach to spiritual warfare?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 60
Psalm 108 borrows from Psalm 60, which also speaks of God's deliverance and strength in battle. This connection highlights the theme of divine intervention in times of distress.

Romans 8:31
This New Testament verse echoes the sentiment of God's support, stating that if God is for us, who can be against us? It reinforces the idea of divine backing in overcoming challenges.

Ephesians 6:10-18
The armor of God passage in Ephesians emphasizes spiritual warfare and the need for God's strength, paralleling the theme of God enabling His people to perform with valor.