What does "the LORD was on our side" reveal about God's faithfulness? The Verse in Focus “If the LORD had not been on our side—let Israel now declare—” (Psalm 124:1) Snapshot of the Setting • A “Song of Ascents” sung by pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem • David recalls real threats—enemies so fierce that, without God, Israel would have been “swallowed … alive” (v. 3) • The line “the LORD was on our side” becomes a testimony rung out by the entire nation What the Line Tells Us about God’s Faithfulness • Steadfast Presence – God is not a distant observer; He stands “on our side,” entering the battle Himself (Exodus 14:14). – His covenant promise, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5), is literal and active. • Covenant Loyalty (Hebrew: ḥesed) – Deuteronomy 7:9: “He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of loving devotion.” – The same loyalty that brought Israel out of Egypt now protects them in David’s day and continues for every believer. • Proven Track Record – Lamentations 3:22-23: “Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed … great is Your faithfulness.” – Psalm 124 reviews past rescues to underline a pattern: God has never failed His people. • Sovereign Protection – Psalm 91:4: “He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge.” – “On our side” means God takes personal responsibility for our safety. • Unchanging Character – 2 Timothy 2:13: “If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.” – God’s faithfulness is rooted in who He is, not in our performance. How This Shapes Our Daily Confidence • When opposition rises, recall specific moments where God intervened—just as Israel rehearsed theirs. • Replace “our” with your own name: “The LORD was on my side” to personalize His faithfulness. • Let gratitude fuel trust; yesterday’s deliverance guarantees today’s hope (Psalm 124:8). Key Takeaways • God’s faithfulness is active, covenantal, and historically verifiable. • The phrase “the LORD was on our side” sums up His unwavering commitment to defend, preserve, and keep His people. • Therefore, believers can face any threat with the settled assurance that the faithful God who stood with Israel stands with us now. |