Psalm 146:3

Put not your trust in princes, in mortal man, who cannot save.

Study Bible

Put not your trust in princes
This phrase cautions against placing confidence in human leaders or authorities. In the biblical context, "princes" refers to rulers or those in positions of power. Throughout Israel's history, reliance on human leaders often led to disappointment and failure, as seen in the reigns of kings like Saul and Solomon. The Bible consistently emphasizes that true security and guidance come from God alone. This warning is echoed in other scriptures, such as Jeremiah 17:5, which states, "Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength." The cultural context of ancient Israel involved frequent interactions with surrounding nations and their rulers, often leading to political alliances that were contrary to God's commands. This phrase serves as a reminder of the fallibility of human leadership and the importance of divine reliance.

in mortal man
The term "mortal man" highlights the transient and limited nature of human beings. Unlike God, who is eternal and unchanging, humans are subject to death and decay. This distinction is crucial in understanding the futility of placing ultimate trust in people. The Bible often contrasts the mortality of humans with the immortality of God, as seen in passages like Isaiah 40:6-8, which compares people to grass that withers. The acknowledgment of human mortality serves as a humbling reminder of our dependence on God, who alone possesses the power to sustain and save. This phrase also points to the limitations of human wisdom and strength, reinforcing the need for divine guidance and intervention.

who cannot save
This phrase underscores the inability of humans to provide ultimate salvation or deliverance. In the biblical narrative, salvation is a central theme, with God as the sole source of true deliverance. Human efforts, no matter how well-intentioned, fall short of providing the redemption that only God can offer. This is evident in the story of the Exodus, where God, not Moses or any other leader, is credited with delivering the Israelites from Egypt. Theologically, this phrase points to the necessity of divine intervention for salvation, a concept fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus Christ. Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate Savior, whose sacrifice provides eternal salvation, contrasting with the temporary and insufficient solutions offered by human leaders. This phrase serves as a call to place faith in God's saving power rather than in human capabilities.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Princes
Refers to rulers or leaders, those in positions of authority and power. In the context of ancient Israel, this would include kings and other governmental figures.

2. Mortal Man
This term emphasizes the human condition, highlighting the limitations and mortality of human beings, regardless of their status or power.

3. Psalmist
The author of the psalm, traditionally believed to be David, who is expressing a deep trust in God over human leaders.

Teaching Points

The Limitations of Human Authority
Human leaders, regardless of their power, are limited and cannot provide ultimate salvation or security. Our trust should be in God, who is eternal and all-powerful.

The Nature of True Security
True security and salvation come from God alone. While human leaders can play important roles, they are not infallible or eternal.

The Call to Trust in God
This verse calls believers to place their ultimate trust in God rather than in human institutions or leaders. It is a reminder of God's sovereignty and faithfulness.

Understanding Human Mortality
Recognizing the mortality of humans helps us to prioritize our trust and reliance on God, who is immortal and unchanging.

Practical Trust in Daily Life
In practical terms, trusting God means seeking His guidance in decisions, relying on His provision, and finding peace in His promises, rather than being swayed by the changing tides of human leadership.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the limitations of human leaders affect your perspective on current events and political figures?

2. In what ways can you actively place your trust in God rather than in human institutions or leaders?

3. How do the teachings of Jeremiah 17:5 and Isaiah 2:22 reinforce the message of Psalm 146:3?

4. Reflect on a time when you placed your trust in human solutions rather than in God. What was the outcome, and what did you learn from that experience?

5. How can you apply the principle of trusting in God over man in your personal and professional life this week?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 17:5
This verse warns against trusting in man and turning away from the Lord, reinforcing the message of Psalm 146:3.

Isaiah 2:22
Advises against placing trust in humans, who are temporary and limited, similar to the message in Psalm 146:3.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord with all your heart, contrasting reliance on human understanding.