Why should we not trust in "princes" according to Psalm 146:3? The Heart of Psalm 146:3 “Do not put your trust in princes, in mortal man, in whom there is no salvation.” Why Princes Fail Us • They are “mortal man”—their lives are fleeting and fragile. • “In whom there is no salvation”—they lack the power to rescue souls or guarantee ultimate safety. • Their influence is limited to time and circumstance; it cannot reach beyond the grave or alter eternity. Expanded Picture from the Surrounding Verses • Psalm 146:4 reminds us that when a ruler’s “spirit departs, he returns to the ground; on that very day his plans perish.” Earthly agendas end when earthly life ends. • Psalm 146:5 contrasts this with the blessedness of those whose help and hope are in the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth (vv. 5–6). Echoes Throughout Scripture • Psalm 118:8-9 — “It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man. It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.” • Isaiah 2:22 — “Stop regarding man, whose breath is in his nostrils; for of what account is he?” • Jeremiah 17:5 — “Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD.” • 1 Samuel 8:10-18 — Israel’s request for a king shows how human rulers inevitably tax, draft, and disappoint. The Better Foundation • Only the LORD possesses unfailing power to save (Isaiah 45:21-22). • His reign is eternal (Psalm 145:13); His plans stand firm forever (Psalm 33:11). • He alone is worthy of total trust because He never lies, tires, dies, or fails (Numbers 23:19; Hebrews 13:8). Living It Out • Honor and pray for leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2), but anchor confidence in God alone. • Measure every promise of human authority against the unchanging promises of Scripture. • Rest in the Lord’s salvation, knowing that no earthly power can rival His ability to save and sustain. |
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