What is the meaning of Psalm 118:10? All the nations • The psalmist speaks of literal gentile powers arrayed against him, echoing moments when Israel faced united hostility (Psalm 2:1-2; 2 Chronicles 20:1-2). • “The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved” (Psalm 46:6) shows this is not an isolated complaint but a recurring reality for God’s people. • By noting “all,” the writer underscores the overwhelming odds—there were no earthly allies to lean on. surrounded me • Encirclement paints a picture of inescapable pressure, as when Elisha’s servant cried out at Dothan before God opened his eyes (2 Kings 6:15-17). • Similar imagery appears in Psalm 22:12-13: “Many bulls surround me; strong bulls of Bashan encircle me”, highlighting feelings of vulnerability. • Yet the psalmist does not collapse in fear; he records the threat to magnify God’s coming rescue. but in the name • A holy turnaround hinges on the authority bound up in God’s name. “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10). • Trust shifts from visible resources to the invisible, invincible character of God (Psalm 20:7). • New-Testament echoes affirm the same principle: victory comes “in the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 4:12). of the LORD • This is the covenant name revealed to Moses—“I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14-15)—guaranteeing unfailing faithfulness. • “Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 124:8) links His name to His creative power; no foe can equal that. • Isaiah 42:8 reminds us that the LORD guards His glory; delivering His people protects that glory. I cut them off. • The victory is decisive and complete, fulfilling promises like Deuteronomy 9:3: “He will destroy them and subdue them before you”. • The psalmist acts, yet God supplies the strength: “With my God I can leap over a wall” (Psalm 18:29). • The New Testament concurs: “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us” (Romans 8:37). • “Cut them off” also foreshadows ultimate judgment on rebellious nations at Christ’s return (Revelation 19:15). summary Overwhelmed by hostile nations, the psalmist stands encircled. Humanly speaking, defeat is certain. Yet he invokes the covenant name of the LORD, the unchanging I AM, and the battle reverses. God’s character and authority turn overwhelming odds into overwhelming victory, proving that no matter how many enemies surround God’s people, confidence placed “in the name of the LORD” secures complete triumph. |
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