Psalm 108:12

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

Study Bible

Give us aid
The phrase "Give us aid" is a plea for divine assistance, reflecting a deep reliance on God rather than human strength. The Hebrew root for "aid" is "עֶזְרָה" (ezrah), which signifies help or support. This word is often used in the context of God providing assistance to His people, emphasizing that true help comes from the Lord. In the historical context of Israel, this plea would resonate with the many times God delivered them from their adversaries, reinforcing the belief that divine intervention is superior to any human effort.

against the enemy
The term "enemy" in Hebrew is "צָר" (tsar), which can mean adversary or foe. This word is used throughout the Old Testament to describe both physical and spiritual adversaries. In the context of ancient Israel, enemies often referred to surrounding nations that threatened their existence. Spiritually, it can also represent the forces of evil that oppose God's people. The phrase underscores the reality of opposition in the life of believers and the need for God's protection and victory over such forces.

for the help of man
This phrase highlights the contrast between divine and human assistance. The Hebrew word for "help" here is "תְּשׁוּעָה" (teshuah), which can also mean deliverance or salvation. The psalmist acknowledges that while human help can be beneficial, it is ultimately limited and unreliable. This reflects a biblical worldview that prioritizes trust in God over reliance on human capabilities, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture.

is worthless
The word "worthless" in Hebrew is "שָׁוְא" (shav), meaning vain, empty, or futile. This term is used to describe things that lack substance or effectiveness. The psalmist's declaration that human help is "worthless" serves as a reminder of the futility of relying solely on human strength and wisdom. It calls believers to place their trust in God, whose power and faithfulness far exceed any human effort. This perspective encourages a life of faith, where dependence on God is paramount, and human efforts are seen as secondary to His divine will and purpose.

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.