The path of life frequently presents obstacles that can make us feel swamped and powerless. Yet, the saying “Let God arise and his enemies be scattered” serves as a reminder that there is always divine support and power accessible to us, even during our lowest points.
The essence of this expression lies in acknowledging the Lord’s sovereignty and unwavering might. When uttered, the battle cry of kings conjures vivid imagery of chariots thundering across the heavens, an unstoppable force against evil. Through it, we are reminded that God will conquer all opposition, engulfing his enemies with the consuming fire of righteousness.
Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before him.
— Psalm 68:1
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The Meaning And Significance Of Psalms 68
Rebuke the company of spearmen, the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people, till everyone submits himself with pieces of silver; scatter thou the people that delight in war.
— Psalm 68:32–33
At its core, the phrase “Let God arise and His enemies be scattered” from Psalms 68 conveys the idea of divine intervention on behalf of the faithful. Derived from the King James version of the Bible, it is a powerful phrase that encapsulates a heartfelt request for divine intervention[1] in the face of adversaries. It captures our plea for God’s presence, power, and strength to be manifested in our lives.
The significance of this proclamation lies in recognizing that ultimate victory can only be achieved through faith in the Lord God and that no matter how daunting or persistent our enemies may seem, they are no match for his power. This declaration instills hope and confidence in people, reinforcing their faith and trust in God.
Our strength should therefore be anchored in God’s power, for “Thy God hath commanded thy strength; strengthen, O God, that which thou hast wrought for us. Because of thy temple at Jerusalem shall kings bring presents unto thee” (Psalm 68:28).
Furthermore, Psalm 68:35 states: “O God, thou art terrible out of thy holy places; the God of Israel is he that giveth strength and power unto his people. Blessed be God.” We can rest assured that with God, victory is assured because we have been blessed with his power.
What It Means To Let God Arise
O God, when thou wentest forth before thy people, when thou didst march through the wilderness, Selah, the earth shook, and the heavens also dropped at the presence of God; even Sinai itself was moved at the presence of God, the God of Israel.
— Psalm 68:7–8 (KJV)
When we ask for “God to arise,” we acknowledge His authority over all situations. It is a recognition that He has the power to intervene and bring about change.
The scattering of his enemies symbolizes their defeat by divine power. It represents the triumph of good over evil as God’s enemies are driven away and rendered powerless. This imagery highlights the belief that those who oppose Him or His people will be undone.
This expression portrays an active intervention from a higher power against those who stand against God. It conveys the idea that God takes action on behalf of His people, protecting them from harm and ensuring victory. The earth trembles at His presence, and armies crumble before His might.
By invoking the phrase “let God arise and his enemies be scattered,” believers express their faith in God’s ability to bring about victory and triumph. It serves as a reminder that our trust should not rest solely on human strength but rather on the power of a divine being who fights on our behalf.
In Psalm 68:22, God declared, “I will bring again from Bashan; I will bring my people again from the depths of the sea, that thy foot may be dipped in the blood of thine enemies, and the tongue of thy dogs in the same.” Indeed, we have the assurance that the righteous are called to “exceedingly rejoice” before God.
Implications For Believers Today
Thy congregation hath dwelt therein; thou, O God, hast prepared of thy goodness for the poor. The Lord gave the word; Great was the company of those who proclaimed it: “Kings of armies flee, they flee, And she who remains at home divides the spoil.
Though you lie down among the sheepfolds, You will be like the wings of a dove covered with silver, And her feathers with yellow gold.” When the Almighty scattered kings in it, it was white as snow in Zalmon.
— Psalm 68:11–14 (NKJV)
Believers can find encouragement in knowing that they serve a victorious God who fights on their behalf. When faced with challenges or enemies, we are called to rely on God’s strength rather than our own abilities because he will fight for us. This phrase serves as a reminder of this timeless truth.
Trusting that justice will prevail against all opposition fosters faith, courage, and perseverance among believers today. It reassures them that no matter what they may encounter, God is ultimately in control and will bring about justice.
In applying this concept, believers are encouraged to have faith in God’s power and trust His plan. They should not be discouraged by the presence of enemies or obstacles but instead, lean on God for strength and guidance because he is with us.
Psalm 68:18 reads: “The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands, of angels; the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place. Thou hast ascended on high; thou hast led captivity captive; thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them.”
As members of the church and followers of Christ, believers are part of a holy habitation. They are called to live out their faith in a way that reflects God’s victory. By doing so, they become witnesses to others and demonstrate the transformative power of faith.
This powerful declaration in Psalm 68:1 reminds us to put our trust in God’s sovereignty rather than our own limited understanding. In fact, when we embrace this truth, it changes our perspective and empowers us to face any situation with confidence. We can rest assured that as we stand firm in our faith, relying on God’s strength and guidance, He will scatter our enemies and lead us into victory.
Conclusion
Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth; O sing praises unto the Lord; Selah.
— Psalm 68:10 (KJV)
Understanding Psalm 68 in context helps us grasp the full implications of God’s arising and His enemies being scattered. It reminds us of God’s sovereignty and power over all opposition.
We are encouraged to embrace a posture of surrender and reliance on God’s mighty voice. By doing so, we can experience victory over our own personal battles and witness the scattering of any forces that come against us.
Take hold of this truth today, embracing it as you navigate life’s challenges with confidence in the Lord who fights on your behalf. Let the wicked perish before God.
Thank you for this wonderful article, it’s really encouraging and a great reminder. Thank you for explaining the psalm so well. May God bless you and strengthen you.