Psalm 60:9

Who will bring me to the fortified city? Who will lead me to Edom?

Study Bible

Who will bring me
This phrase reflects a deep reliance on divine guidance and intervention. The Hebrew root for "bring" is "yāḇō," which implies a sense of leading or carrying. In the context of ancient Israel, this question underscores the necessity of God's leadership in overcoming challenges. It is a rhetorical question that emphasizes the psalmist's dependence on God to achieve victory. Historically, Israel often faced formidable enemies and needed divine assistance to succeed in battle.

to the fortified city?
The "fortified city" symbolizes a place of strength and security, often representing a significant military or strategic target. In ancient times, cities with strong defenses were seen as nearly impregnable. The Hebrew word for "fortified" is "mibṣār," which denotes a place of protection and defense. Spiritually, this can be seen as a metaphor for the strongholds in our lives that require divine intervention to overcome. The psalmist is expressing a desire for God to lead him to victory over seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Who will lead me
The repetition of the question "Who will lead me" emphasizes the psalmist's acknowledgment of his own limitations and the need for divine guidance. The Hebrew root "nāḥâ" for "lead" suggests guidance with care and purpose. This reflects a trust in God's providence and wisdom. In the broader biblical narrative, God is often depicted as a shepherd leading His people, which is a comforting image of guidance and protection.

to Edom?
Edom represents a historical and geographical challenge for Israel. The Edomites were descendants of Esau and often in conflict with Israel. The mention of Edom here is significant because it was a region known for its rugged terrain and strong defenses. The psalmist's question about being led to Edom indicates a desire to conquer or overcome a longstanding adversary. In a spiritual sense, Edom can represent the personal and communal challenges that believers face, requiring God's strength to overcome. The historical context of Edom as a persistent enemy highlights the ongoing spiritual battles that require divine intervention for victory.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The author of the psalm, traditionally believed to be King David, who often sought God's guidance and strength in battles.

2. Fortified City
Represents a place of strength and security, often seen as a military stronghold.

3. Edom
A nation located to the southeast of Israel, often in conflict with Israel. Edom is symbolic of opposition and challenges faced by God's people.

4. Israel
The nation of God's chosen people, often in conflict with surrounding nations, including Edom.

5. God's Deliverance
The overarching theme of the psalm, highlighting the need for divine intervention in overcoming adversaries.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God for Victory
Just as David sought God's guidance to conquer Edom, believers today must rely on God for victory over spiritual battles and life's challenges.

Recognizing Spiritual Strongholds
The "fortified city" can symbolize spiritual strongholds in our lives. Identifying and addressing these areas with God's help is crucial for spiritual growth.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The mention of Edom reminds us of God's control over nations and history. Trusting in His sovereignty brings peace amidst global uncertainties.

The Role of Prayer in Seeking Guidance
David's inquiry about who will lead him reflects the importance of prayer in seeking God's direction and wisdom in our decisions.

Overcoming Opposition with Faith
The psalm encourages believers to face opposition with faith, knowing that God is our ultimate leader and deliverer.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's question in Psalm 60:9 reflect his dependence on God, and how can we apply this attitude in our daily lives?

2. What are some "fortified cities" or strongholds in your life that you need God's help to overcome?

3. How does understanding God's sovereignty over nations, as seen in the context of Edom, influence your perspective on current world events?

4. In what ways can prayer be a tool for seeking God's guidance in overcoming personal and spiritual challenges?

5. How can the themes of Psalm 60:9 encourage you to face opposition with faith and trust in God's deliverance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 108:10
This verse mirrors Psalm 60:9, emphasizing the need for divine guidance in overcoming strongholds.

2 Samuel 8:13-14
Describes David's victories over Edom, illustrating God's faithfulness in delivering Israel from its enemies.

Isaiah 34:5-6
Speaks of God's judgment on Edom, reinforcing the theme of divine justice against those who oppose His people.

Obadiah 1:1-4
A prophecy against Edom, highlighting the consequences of pride and opposition to God's will.