Topic: Psalm 68 - God is Victory

There are FOUR elements in this psalm upon which victory is founded.

- Let God arise – (vs. 1)

This phrase is strong in the first verse. Without Him we can do nothing, so we cry, "Let God arise!" and when He does, things begin to move. In the midst of turmoil, God arises. He will arise to set up His Kingdom. The only one who can possibly bring peace to this earth is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He will set up His Kingdom in glory and power. Only when God arises will we see the victory that we long for. Every time we move before God, we see defeat. If we move with God we see glorious victory. We must let God arise.

- The Lord gives the command - (vs. 11)

This is a command to attack. As the charge was made, they moved in and shouted at the top of their voices. What a fearful thing for an enemy to face: as the men rushed into the fight, the women screamed the victory. In its context the word God published was “attack.” It is the voice of a battle victory cry. In Exodus 14:15, Moses was told by God "Don't pray–move!" Moses would not move without God's command. If we all were as responsive to the Lord's command, then we would sing songs of victory.

- The Lord wins every time. (vs. 22)

The meaning of verse 22 is from the historical event of Numbers 21. God reminded Israel how He delivered them from Og, king of Bashan. Whether it was a great enemy or a great element which was in opposition to them, He could deliver them. God reassures His people that victory is certain.

- God commanded strength. (vs. 28)

The word “commanded” used here denotes authority. You have strength by God's authority. There are times when we feel excessively weak. Suddenly, there comes a touch from God and He commands our strength. The whole situation in our lives is changed by the Lord Himself. The word “strength” used here by the psalmist refers to the might which wins the battle and establishes the kingdom. This is linked to the response Jesus gave to Peter about his confession of Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the Living God, in Matthew 16:19, “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven…”

Let us live in the victory He has given to us.

Verse 35 says, “O God, You are awesome from Your sanctuary. The God of Israel Himself gives strength and power to the people. Blessed be God!”

See you Sunday!

Dr. Scott Kallem