Psalm 124:1

If the LORD had not been on our side--let Israel now declare--

Study Bible

If the LORD
The phrase "If the LORD" sets the stage for a conditional statement, emphasizing the dependency of Israel's survival and success on God's intervention. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, which signifies His eternal presence and faithfulness. This name is deeply rooted in the history of Israel, reminding them of God's promises and His unchanging nature. The use of "Yahweh" underscores the personal relationship between God and His people, highlighting that it is not just any deity, but the covenant-keeping God of Israel who is their protector.

had not been
This phrase suggests a hypothetical scenario, inviting the reader to consider the dire consequences if God had not intervened. The Hebrew root here implies a lack or absence, which in this context, would mean the absence of divine help. It serves to magnify the importance of God's presence and action in the lives of His people. Historically, Israel faced numerous threats from surrounding nations, and this phrase calls to mind the many times God delivered them from seemingly insurmountable odds.

on our side
The phrase "on our side" conveys the idea of God being an ally or advocate for His people. The Hebrew word used here can also mean "for us" or "with us," indicating a close, supportive relationship. This reflects the biblical theme of God as a warrior fighting on behalf of Israel, as seen in numerous Old Testament battles where God's intervention was the deciding factor. It reassures believers of God's commitment to their cause and His active participation in their struggles.

—let Israel say—
This call to "let Israel say" is an invitation for the community to collectively acknowledge and testify to God's deliverance. It is a liturgical prompt, encouraging the people to remember and proclaim God's past acts of salvation. The communal aspect is significant, as it reinforces the identity of Israel as a people chosen and sustained by God. This phrase also serves as a reminder of the importance of corporate worship and testimony in the life of the faith community, encouraging believers to share their experiences of God's faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is portrayed as the protector and deliverer of His people.

2. Israel
The nation chosen by God, often representing the collective people of God who experience His deliverance and protection.

3. David (implied author)
Traditionally attributed as the author of this psalm, King David often wrote about God's deliverance in times of trouble.

4. Enemies (implied context)
Though not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the context of the psalm suggests adversaries from whom God delivers His people.

5. The Community of Believers
The psalm is a communal declaration, inviting all of Israel to acknowledge God's intervention.

Teaching Points

Acknowledging God's Presence
Recognize and declare God's active presence in our lives, just as Israel is called to do in this psalm.

Community Testimony
Encourage the community of believers to share testimonies of God's deliverance, strengthening collective faith.

Dependence on God
Emphasize the importance of relying on God rather than human strength or wisdom in times of trouble.

Gratitude for Deliverance
Cultivate a heart of gratitude for past deliverances, which builds faith for future challenges.

God's Faithfulness
Trust in God's unchanging nature and His faithfulness to His promises, as demonstrated throughout Scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the phrase "If the LORD had not been on our side" challenge us to reflect on God's past interventions in our lives?

2. In what ways can we, like Israel, publicly declare God's deliverance in our personal and communal experiences?

3. How does the assurance of God's presence in Psalm 124:1 relate to the promise found in Romans 8:31?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to remind ourselves and others of God's faithfulness during difficult times?

5. How can the account of Israel's deliverance in Exodus 14 inspire us to trust God in seemingly impossible situations today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The deliverance of Israel from Egypt, where God was clearly on their side, parting the Red Sea.

Romans 8:31
Paul echoes the sentiment of God being for us, which assures believers of victory over adversities.

2 Chronicles 20
Jehoshaphat's prayer and God's deliverance of Judah, emphasizing reliance on God in battle.

Psalm 46
A psalm of confidence in God's protection, similar in theme to Psalm 124.

Isaiah 41:10
God's promise to be with His people, providing strength and help.