Psalm 60:5

Respond and save us with Your right hand, that Your beloved may be delivered.

Study Bible

Save us with Your right hand
The phrase "Save us" is a plea for divine intervention and deliverance. In Hebrew, the word for "save" is "yasha," which is often used in the context of salvation and deliverance from danger or distress. The "right hand" is a symbol of power and authority in biblical literature. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the right hand was associated with strength and skill. Thus, this phrase emphasizes the psalmist's reliance on God's mighty power to rescue His people. The right hand of God is often depicted as a source of protection and victory, as seen in Exodus 15:6, where it is said, "Your right hand, O LORD, is majestic in power."

answer us
The request for God to "answer us" reflects a deep desire for communication and response from the divine. In the Hebrew text, the word "anah" is used, which means to respond or reply. This implies a relationship where the psalmist expects God to hear and act upon their plea. The historical context of this psalm, attributed to David, suggests a time of national crisis or military defeat, where the people of Israel are seeking reassurance and intervention from God. The call for an answer is not just a request for words but for tangible action that demonstrates God's presence and favor.

that those You love may be delivered
The phrase "those You love" refers to God's chosen people, Israel, whom He has set apart and cherished. The Hebrew word for "love" here is "ahav," which denotes a deep, covenantal love that God has for His people. This love is not based on merit but on God's sovereign choice and promise. The term "delivered" is from the Hebrew "yasha," the same root as "save," reinforcing the theme of rescue and salvation. The historical context of this psalm may relate to a specific military campaign or period of distress, where the psalmist is reminding God of His covenantal promises to protect and preserve His beloved nation. This plea for deliverance is a testament to the faith and trust that the psalmist places in God's unfailing love and faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The author of Psalm 60, David was the king of Israel and a man after God's own heart. He often sought God's guidance and deliverance in times of trouble.

2. Israel
The nation of God's chosen people, often in need of deliverance from their enemies and seeking God's intervention.

3. God's Right Hand
Symbolic of God's power and authority, often invoked in the Psalms as a source of salvation and strength.

4. The Beloved of God
Refers to those whom God loves and has chosen, often seen as the people of Israel in the Old Testament context.

5. Military Conflict
The backdrop of Psalm 60 is a time of military struggle for Israel, possibly during David's battles with surrounding nations.

Teaching Points

The Power of God's Right Hand
God's right hand symbolizes His ultimate power and authority. Believers can trust in His strength to deliver them from any situation.

The Assurance of God's Love
Those whom God loves are assured of His deliverance. This love is steadfast and unchanging, providing comfort and hope.

Prayer for Deliverance
Like David, believers are encouraged to pray earnestly for God's intervention in their lives, trusting in His ability to save.

God's Faithfulness in Times of Trouble
Even in the midst of conflict and struggle, God's faithfulness remains. Believers can rely on His promises and His timing.

Community of Believers
The plea for deliverance is not just individual but communal. The church, as the beloved of God, can unite in prayer for collective deliverance and support.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of God's right hand in Psalm 60:5 enhance your understanding of His power and authority in your life?

2. In what ways can you relate the plea for deliverance in Psalm 60:5 to your personal experiences or challenges?

3. How does the assurance of being among "those You love" impact your faith and trust in God's promises?

4. What other biblical examples can you find where God's right hand is depicted as a source of strength and deliverance?

5. How can the church today embody the communal aspect of seeking God's deliverance as seen in Psalm 60:5?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 108:6
This verse echoes the plea for deliverance and highlights the theme of God's love for His people.

Isaiah 41:10
This passage reassures believers of God's presence and strength, similar to the invocation of God's right hand in Psalm 60:5.

Exodus 15:6
The song of Moses celebrates God's right hand as a symbol of His power and victory over the Egyptians.

Romans 8:31-39
Paul speaks of God's love and the assurance of victory for those He loves, resonating with the plea for deliverance in Psalm 60:5.