In what ways can we trust God to "let not man prevail"?

◄ How can we trust God to stop man? ►

Setting the Scene: Psalm 9:19

“Rise up, O LORD, let not man prevail; let the nations be judged before You.”

What “let not man prevail” literally says

• “Man” (Hebrew: ’enosh) spotlights frail humanity in contrast to the almighty LORD.

• “Prevail” pictures human schemes gaining the upper hand.

• The psalmist therefore calls on God to act so that flesh-and-blood arrogance never outmuscles divine purpose.

Why we can be certain God answers this cry

1. God’s character guarantees it

• Psalm 115:3 — “Our God is in the heavens; He does whatever pleases Him.”

• Numbers 23:19 — “God is not a man, that He should lie.”

• Isaiah 46:10 — He declares “My purpose will stand, and I will do all My good pleasure.”

2. God’s record in history confirms it

• Exodus 14:13-18 — Pharaoh’s army swallowed by the sea.

• 2 Chronicles 20:15-23 — Jehoshaphat watches enemies destroy themselves.

• Daniel 4:28-37 — Nebuchadnezzar’s pride humbled until he acknowledged “the Most High rules.”

3. God’s covenant promises secure it

• Genesis 12:3 — those who curse Abraham’s seed are cursed.

• 2 Samuel 7:16 — David’s throne established forever, fulfilled in Christ (Luke 1:32-33).

• Matthew 16:18 — “I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.”

Ways we trust God to keep man from prevailing

• Ultimate justice

– Revelation 20:11-15 shows every deed laid bare; no earthly power will dodge His courtroom.

• Present restraint

– Psalm 33:10-11: “The LORD frustrates the plans of the nations.” Even now He sets limits (Job 1:12).

• Personal vindication

– Psalm 118:6: “The LORD is for me; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”

• Gospel advance

– Acts 5:38-39: human efforts cannot overthrow a work born of God.

• Final triumph in Christ

– Revelation 19:11-16 pictures the returning King subduing all opposition.

How this shapes our daily walk

• Pray boldly, knowing the Lord delights to rise up against human pride.

• Stand firm for truth; hostile cultures cannot overrule God’s word (Isaiah 40:8).

• Reject fear of people; reverence for God displaces intimidation (Proverbs 29:25).

• Persevere in righteousness; temporary setbacks never overturn God’s final verdict (Romans 8:31-39).

• Encourage one another with these certainties, “and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:25).