These verses from Psalm 118 are powerful reminders of where our ultimate trust and security should lie. They offer timeless wisdom about the nature of human reliance and the superiority of divine refuge.
Psalm 118 is a song of thanksgiving and praise, likely used in communal worship during major festivals. It celebrates God's enduring love and deliverance. The psalmist recounts personal and communal experiences of God's salvation and emphasizes that reliance on God is far superior to trusting in human strength or authority.
- Trust in Yahweh versus Trust in Man
Verse 8: “It is better to take refuge in Yahweh, than to put confidence in man.”
This verse underscores a fundamental biblical truth: human beings, no matter how well-intentioned or capable, are fallible and limited. When we put our trust in people, we are often met with disappointment because humans can fail us, whether through inability, unreliability, or imperfection. In contrast, taking refuge in Yahweh means relying on God's unfailing love, omnipotence, and perfect wisdom.
Verse 9: “It is better to take refuge in Yahweh, than to put confidence in princes.”
Expanding on the previous verse, this one emphasizes that even those in positions of great power and influence—princes and leaders—are not worthy of ultimate trust. Throughout history, leaders and rulers have proven to be flawed, their promises sometimes unmet, and their reigns temporary. However, Yahweh, the eternal God, offers a steadfast and unshakeable refuge.
- The Superiority of Divine Refuge
God’s Unfailing Love and Faithfulness: The psalmist repeatedly highlights God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. Human relationships and systems can falter, but God’s love is everlasting and His faithfulness endures through all generations (Psalm 100:5).
Omnipotence and Sovereignty: Unlike humans, God is all-powerful and sovereign over all creation. Trusting in Him means relying on an omnipotent being who controls all circumstances and events (Psalm 46:1).
Eternal Security: Human leaders come and go, and their power is limited by time and mortality. God, however, is eternal and unchanging. Isaiah 40:8 states, “The grass withers, the flower fades; but the word of our God stands forever.” This eternal nature of God provides a secure foundation for our trust.
Practical Applications
Personal Trust in God: We are encouraged to examine areas in our lives where we may be overly reliant on human support or resources. By shifting our trust to God, we align ourselves with His will and experience His peace and guidance.
Facing Uncertainty: In times of uncertainty or crisis, these verses remind us to seek refuge in God. Whether dealing with personal challenges, societal instability, or global issues, trusting in God’s sovereignty provides stability and hope.
Encouraging Others: We can also inspire others to place their trust in God. By sharing testimonies of God’s faithfulness in our lives, we help build the faith of those around us, encouraging them to seek God as their refuge.
Biblical Examples of Trust
David and Goliath: In 1 Samuel 17, David’s trust in God rather than in human armor or weapons illustrates the power of divine reliance. David declared, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin: but I come to you in the name of Yahweh of Armies, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied” (1 Samuel 17:45).
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: In Daniel 3, these three men refused to worship Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image, choosing instead to trust in God. They said, “Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king” (Daniel 3:17). Their faith resulted in miraculous deliverance.
Jesus’s Teachings: Jesus consistently taught about the importance of placing trust in God rather than in earthly riches or human strength. In Matthew 6:19-21, He advises against storing up treasures on earth and instead encourages storing up treasures in heaven, where they are secure.
Conclusion: Psalm 118:8-9 provides a clear and compelling argument for why it is better to trust in Yahweh than in any human being, including those in positions of great power. These verses remind us of God’s unparalleled faithfulness, power, and eternal nature. By taking refuge in Him, we find a sure foundation and an unfailing source of strength and security.
As we navigate the complexities of life, these verses call us to continually place our confidence in God rather than in the fallible systems and individuals around us. They challenge us to deepen o
See also: See also: vs 6, & 20-22
Psalm 118:8-9. It is better to take refuge in Yahweh, than to put confidence in man. It is better to take refuge in Yahweh, than to put confidence in princes.