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Lutheran reading notes

In Psalms chapter 20, the wisdom literature continues to explore prayer, worship, lament, praise, and trust in God. Lutheran interpretation often emphasizes humanity’s limitations and the need to rely on God's grace and promises. The chapter highlights the contrast between human striving and the faithfulness of God.

Theme: Wisdom, prayer, and faithful living Key people: Wise figures Key place: Israel Liturgical use: Wisdom lections
1 [To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.] The LORD hear thee in the day of trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee; {defend...: Heb. set thee on an high place}
Psalms 20:1 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
2 Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion; {thee help: Heb. thy help} {strengthen: Heb. support}
Psalms 20:2 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
3 Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice; Selah. {accept: Heb. turn to ashes: or, make fat}
Psalms 20:3 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
4 Grant thee according to thine own heart, and fulfil all thy counsel.
Psalms 20:4 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
5 We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up {our} banners: the LORD fulfil all thy petitions.
Psalms 20:5 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
6 Now know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand. {his holy...: Heb. the heaven of his holiness} {with...: Heb. by the strength of the salvation of}
Psalms 20:6 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
7 Some {trust} in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.
Psalms 20:7 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
8 They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.
Psalms 20:8 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
9 Save, LORD: let the king hear us when we call.
Psalms 20:9 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.