Victory Through Prayer: The King's Battle and God's Favor
The people petition the Lord to protect and empower the king in the day of trouble, accepting his sacrifices and granting him victory.
Psalms 20:1–5 (BSB)
1 May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you.
2 May He send you help from the sanctuary and sustain you from Zion.
3 May He remember all your gifts and look favorably on your burnt offerings. Selah
4 May He give you the desires of your heart and make all your plans succeed.
5 May we shout for joy at your victory and raise a banner in the name of our God. May the LORD grant all your petitions.
What is the big idea of Psalms 20:1–5?
The people petition the LORD to protect and empower the king in the day of trouble, accepting his sacrifices and granting him victory.
How does Psalms 20:1–5 point to Christ?
Jesus is the King who faced the ultimate 'day of distress' for us; because the Father accepted His perfect sacrifice, He has been given the desire of His heart—the salvation of all who call on His Name—and we now raise our banners in His victory.
Authorial Intent
To provide a liturgical prayer for the community to intercede for the king’s protection and success in battle, grounding his victory in divine favor and acceptable worship.
Chapter: Psalm 20
Prayer for the LORD’s Anointed in the Day of Trouble
In the day of trouble, God’s people pray for the LORD’s anointed and trust not in visible power but in the saving name of the LORD.