Psalms 20:8
They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.
Original Language Analysis
כָּרְע֣וּ
They are brought down
H3766
כָּרְע֣וּ
They are brought down
Strong's:
H3766
Word #:
2 of 6
to bend the knee; by implication, to sink, to prostrate
וְנָפָ֑לוּ
and fallen
H5307
וְנָפָ֑לוּ
and fallen
Strong's:
H5307
Word #:
3 of 6
to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
Historical Context
In ancient warfare, chariots and horses represented supreme military technology. Israel, often outnumbered and out-equipped, learned to trust God's providence rather than military superiority. This verse would be sung before and after battles as testimony to God's faithfulness.
Questions for Reflection
- What modern 'chariots and horses' are you tempted to trust instead of God?
- How has God demonstrated His faithfulness when you lacked human resources?
Analysis & Commentary
The contrast between 'they' (enemies trusting in chariots and horses, v.7) and 'we' (trusting in the LORD) reaches its culmination here. The Reformed understanding emphasizes that those who trust in created things rather than the Creator will inevitably fall, while those whose confidence rests in God's sovereign power will stand. This verse demonstrates the practical outworking of sola fide—faith alone in God's power, not human resources, brings ultimate victory.