In view of the similarity between this petition and the one that opens this Psalm , it is probable that the Israelites prayed it too. They looked to Yahweh as their ultimate authority and the One from whom victory must come. [source][source][source]
The elect can appeal to God for victory against their spiritual enemies confidently, when they are walking with Him, because He is willing and able to subdue the powers of darkness. God has assured us of our ultimate victory (cf. 2 Corinthians 2:14). The psalm presents three essentials for victory as God"s people fight against the forces of evil. First, there must be a praying people ( Psalm 20:1-5). Second, there must be a confident leader ( Psalm 20:6-8). Third, there must be a sovereign Lord ( Psalm 20:9). [1][source]
Context Summary
Psalms 20:1-9 - The Saving Strength Of God's Right Hand
This may have been written on such an occasion as 2 Samuel 10:1-19.
The prayer of the soldiers, Psalms 20:1-4. Ready, drawn up for the battle, they salute their king. God's name is His character. The God of Jacob cannot forsake us, though we are unworthy as the patriarch. "Thou worm Jacob!" Isaiah 41:14.
The resolve, Psalms 20:5. Our banners may wave proudly in the breeze, but all is vain if God be not our trust. The Lord is our "banner," Exodus 17:15. We succeed only as we set out in His name and for His glory.
The king's voice, Psalms 20:6. Strength is plural, signifying the variety and infinity of God's resources, on which we may count.
The final chorus of the host, Psalms 20:7-9. As they look across the field, they contrast the might of their foes with their slender equipment. But as they gaze, those embattled hosts are dispersed, as clouds before a gale. Save! is the battle-cry. [source]
Chapter Summary: Psalms 20
1The church blesses the King in his exploits 7and expresses her confidence in God's helpfulness
Parse: Verb, Qal, Imperfect, third person masculine singular, first person common plural
Root: לְעַנּׄות
Sense: to answer, respond, testify, speak, shout.