What does Psalm 21:1 mean?
What is the meaning of Psalm 21:1?

For the choirmaster.

• This opening note signals that the psalm was meant to be sung aloud in gathered worship, placed in the hands of Israel’s lead musician (see Psalm 4:1; 1 Chronicles 15:22).

• Corporate praise highlights God’s works before the whole community—exactly what Psalm 95:1 urges: “Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout to the Rock of our salvation”.

• By commissioning skilled leadership, David ensures that every voice joins in exalting God, reflecting the orderliness commended in 1 Corinthians 14:40.


A Psalm of David.

• The inscription roots the song in David’s life of covenant faithfulness; his victories, struggles, and worship all feed its lyrics (2 Samuel 22:1–4).

• David wrote as both king and worshiper, reminding us that leadership is no substitute for personal devotion (Psalm 63:1).

• Because Scripture is inspired and factual (2 Timothy 3:16), David’s authorship carries weight, asserting firsthand testimony of God’s help.


O LORD,

• David addresses the covenant God by His revealed name, “the LORD,” underscoring intimate relationship (Exodus 3:14–15).

• Every triumph that follows is anchored in God’s character: “The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer” (Psalm 18:2).

• Calling upon the LORD first sets the order—worship begins with God, not circumstance (Psalm 115:1).


the king rejoices in Your strength.

• David, though mighty, openly attributes every success to divine power. “David kept becoming greater, for the LORD God of Hosts was with him” (2 Samuel 5:10).

• Genuine joy wells up when rulers acknowledge the true King (Psalm 97:1).

• Personal application: recognize God’s might behind every victory—echo Psalm 20:7, “Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God”.


How greatly he exults in Your salvation!

• “Salvation” here embraces rescue from enemies and the broader deliverance God gives His people (Psalm 3:8).

• The king’s exuberant praise models wholehearted gratitude: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior” (Luke 1:46–47).

• Joy over salvation dwarfs earthly honors; Isaiah 12:2 captures the same thrill: “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid”.


summary

Psalm 21:1 spotlights a worshiping king who celebrates God’s power and deliverance. The heading places the song in corporate praise, David’s name links it to lived experience, and the repeated focus on “Your strength…Your salvation” shifts all glory to the LORD. The verse invites believers today to channel every achievement and rescue into fresh, vocal, God-centered joy.

How does Psalm 20:9 align with the overall theme of trust in God?
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