Psalm 89:43 – “You have turned back the edge of his sword and have not supported him in battle.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

In Psalm 89:43, the psalmist is expressing the pain and confusion of seeing God withdraw His support. The imagery of turning back the edge of a sword signifies that the once strong and victorious king has been rendered powerless. Instead of triumphing over enemies, the king’s efforts in battle are now futile because God is no longer providing His strength and support.

This verse captures the deep anguish of feeling abandoned in the midst of conflict. It reflects the despair of someone who once relied on God’s protection but now feels as though that divine support has been removed. The psalmist sees this as a direct cause of the king’s defeat, attributing the loss not just to human failure but to God’s decision to no longer bless their efforts in battle.

Historical Context

Psalm 89 is a heartfelt lament set during a time of crisis for Israel, likely during or after the Babylonian conquest. God had made a covenant with David, promising that his descendants would rule forever. However, the reality the psalmist is facing is one where the nation is defeated, the king is powerless, and it seems like God’s promises have been forgotten.

Historically, Israel’s identity was tied to their covenant relationship with God. When they went into battle, they believed that victory was assured as long as God was with them. The phrase “You have not supported him in battle” reflects the heartbreak of seeing God seemingly withdraw His hand of blessing, allowing enemies to triumph over His chosen people.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Psalm 89:43 highlights the tension between God’s promises and the realities of human experience. The psalmist is struggling with the question: If God promised to be with His people, why is He now allowing them to face defeat? This verse teaches us that while God’s promises are unchanging, there may be seasons where He allows His people to experience hardship for reasons that may not be immediately clear.

This verse also touches on the concept of divine discipline. The lack of support in battle could be God’s way of correcting His people, urging them to turn back to Him. Sometimes God allows us to face challenges to draw us closer to Him and to remind us that our strength ultimately comes from Him, not from our own abilities.

Literary Analysis

The language in Psalm 89:43 is direct and vivid, using the metaphor of a sword turned back to symbolize defeat. In biblical literature, the sword is often a symbol of strength and victory in battle. By turning back the edge of the sword, the psalmist conveys a sense of helplessness and vulnerability.

The tone of this verse is one of lament and sorrow. It’s part of a section in Psalm 89 where the psalmist moves from celebrating God’s faithfulness to expressing deep disappointment and confusion. The contrast between earlier verses that highlight God’s promises and this verse of lament creates a powerful emotional impact, emphasizing the psalmist’s sense of loss.

Biblical Cross-References

• Joshua 7:12: “That is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies; they turn their backs and run because they have been made liable to destruction. I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction.”
• Isaiah 63:10: “Yet they rebelled and grieved His Holy Spirit. So He turned and became their enemy and He Himself fought against them.”
• Lamentations 2:3: “In fierce anger He has cut off every horn of Israel. He has withdrawn His right hand at the approach of the enemy.”
• Psalm 44:9-10: “But now you have rejected and humbled us; you no longer go out with our armies. You made us retreat before the enemy, and our adversaries have plundered us.”

These references highlight moments in Scripture where God withdrew His support as a response to the disobedience of His people, leading to their defeat.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, Psalm 89:43 is a sobering reminder that there may be times when it feels like God is not fighting our battles for us. It’s easy to trust in God when everything is going well, but this verse challenges us to maintain our faith even when it feels like God is distant or silent.

This verse encourages believers to examine their hearts. Are we relying on God’s strength, or are we trying to fight our battles on our own? Sometimes, God may allow us to experience defeat to draw us back to a place of dependence on Him. It’s a call to turn back to God, seeking His guidance and strength rather than trusting in our own abilities.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

While it may seem harsh that God would withdraw His support in battle, it is actually an expression of His love. Just as a parent may allow a child to face consequences in order to learn a valuable lesson, God’s discipline is meant to draw His people back to Him. By allowing His people to experience defeat, God is calling them to recognize their need for Him.

God’s love is not always about making our lives easy; it’s about transforming us to become more like Him. Sometimes that process involves letting us face hardships so that we can grow in faith and trust.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ also faced moments where it seemed like God had turned away, especially during His crucifixion. On the cross, Jesus cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). In that moment, He bore the weight of our sin, experiencing the full extent of God’s judgment so that we would not have to.

• Hebrews 5:8: “Son though He was, He learned obedience from what He suffered.”
• 2 Corinthians 12:9: “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’”
• Romans 8:37: “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”

Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we are assured that even when it feels like God is not with us in the battle, He is working all things for our good. His apparent absence can actually be the prelude to a greater victory.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have there been times in your life when it felt like God withdrew His support during a difficult season? How did you respond?
2. What can we learn about God’s character when He allows us to experience setbacks or defeat?
3. How can we trust in God’s promises, even when our circumstances suggest that He is not actively supporting us?
4. How does Jesus’ experience of feeling forsaken on the cross give you comfort during your own struggles?
5. What practical steps can you take to rely on God’s strength rather than your own when facing challenges?
6. How can you encourage someone who feels like God has abandoned them in their current battles?

These questions are designed to help you reflect on Psalm 89:43 and its relevance to your life. Let this verse challenge you to trust God more deeply, knowing that even when it feels like He has withdrawn His support, He is still working in ways that are beyond our understanding. Trust in His faithfulness, and remember that His love is always guiding you, even through the darkest battles.