How does Psalm 135:11 encourage us to rely on God's deliverance today? Setting the Scene “Sihon king of the Amorites, Og king of Bashan, and all the kings of Canaan.” (Psalm 135:11) Israel’s singers recall three notorious enemies God conquered during the journey from Egypt to the Promised Land (Numbers 21; Deuteronomy 2–3; Joshua 12). These kings embodied military might, fortified cities, and giants—obstacles no human strategy could overcome. God crushed them all, proving His sovereignty and covenant faithfulness. Why This Matters Now • Same God, same power. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) • Historical victories fuel present faith. “For everything that was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4) • Deliverance wasn’t partial; God finished the job (Psalm 136:17-22). Our confidence rests in His complete salvation through Christ (Colossians 2:14-15). Lessons for Today: Relying on God’s Deliverance 1. Remember who defeated the giants. – When modern “giants” loom—sinful habits, crushing debts, cultural pressures—Psalm 135:11 reminds us God specializes in toppling the impossible. 2. Trust His covenant heart. – He fought for Israel because He loved and chose them (Deuteronomy 7:6-9). In Christ, we are likewise chosen (Ephesians 1:4-7). His deliverance is not earned; it flows from covenant grace. 3. Expect specific interventions. – God named Sihon and Og. He still targets concrete problems, not vague notions. Bring Him detailed petitions (Philippians 4:6-7). 4. Look beyond immediate rescue to inheritance. – Verse 11 leads straight into verse 12: “He gave their land as an inheritance.” Every deliverance today advances us toward our ultimate inheritance—eternal life, resurrection bodies, new creation (1 Peter 1:3-5). 5. Worship fuels reliance. – Psalm 135 is a call to praise. Celebrating past victories strengthens present faith and silences fear (Psalm 22:3). Practical Steps to Lean on the Deliverer • Rehearse His track record: journal personal “Sihon and Og” moments God has already conquered. • Replace worry with worship: sing a psalm aloud when anxiety rises. • Pray Scripture back to God: insert your threat into Psalm 135: “Lord, You conquered ____; show Your power again.” • Stand with fellow believers: Israel marched as a nation; enlist trusted friends to pray and praise with you. • Act in obedient faith: Israel still went to battle; step forward in the direction God leads, confident He fights for you. Encouraging Scriptures to Stand On • “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:14) • “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37) • “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor Me.” (Psalm 50:15) Psalm 135:11 anchors our faith: the God who felled ancient kings still reigns—and He delights to deliver His people today. |
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