Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 20

Prayer for the King in BattleThis psalm is a prayer for King David, written by David himself. It is an example of how even great leaders, who already know how to pray, should still ask others to pray for them. David did not think he was too important to need the prayers of the people. In the same way, people in authority today should value and ask for the prayers of others, because these prayers are a source of strength. The psalm teaches us to pray for those who lead us, and it reminds us that God is the one who truly protects and helps leaders, especially in difficult times. These prayers for David also point forward to Jesus Christ, the Son of David, who won the greatest victory for us all.v. 1: The people pray, “May the Lord

v. 2: They ask God to protect David: “May the name of the God of Jacob defend you!” (Psalm 20:1 ). God kept Jacob safe, and the people pray that God will also keep David safe from his enemies. David trusted in God more than in his army. Those who trust in God find safety, as it says, The name of the Lord

v. 3: They pray that God will help David in his work for the nation: “May he send you help from the sanctuary and support you from Zion” (Psalm 20:2 ). This means they pray for special help from God’s presence, not just ordinary help. They want God to give David spiritual strength for his duties and battles.

v. 4: The people pray, “May he remember all your offerings and accept your burnt sacrifice” (Psalm 20:3 ). Before going to battle, David offered sacrifices to God. The people ask God to accept these offerings and to show His approval by giving David victory. Today, when God gives us a desire to serve Him, He also gives us peace in our hearts.

v. 5: They pray for David’s success: “May he grant you according to your heart’s desire and fulfill all your plans” (Psalm 20:4 ). Because David wanted to do what pleased God, the people could confidently pray for his plans to succeed. When we live to honor God, we can trust that God will help us in our work.The people express their hope that God will answer these prayers: “We will rejoice in your salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners” . Not only will they pray for the king, but they also promise to praise God when He saves them. They want to go into battle with God’s name as their banner, giving Him all the glory for any victory (1 Samuel 17:45 ).This psalm reminds us to pray for our leaders and support them with our prayers. It also points to Jesus Christ, the greatest Son of David. In His greatest trouble, God heard and helped Him (Hebrews 5:7 ). Jesus won the victory for us all, and God answered all His prayers for Himself and for us. Let us trust God, pray for those who lead us, and rejoice in His salvation.

The Subject's Prayer for the SovereignThis section shows both the king and the people trusting in God during times of trouble. David is confident because he knows many people are praying for him. The people also show their faith by trusting in God, not in their own strength or weapons. The psalm ends with a prayer for the king and a reminder that God is the one who gives true victory and answers prayer. We are encouraged to pray for our leaders and to trust God above all else.v. 6: David is sure that God will save him because so many people are praying for him. He says, “Now I know that the Lord

v. 7: The people compare themselves to others who trust in their own strength. “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord

v. 8: The psalm shows what happens to those who trust in themselves and those who trust in God. “They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright” . Those who trust in their own strength are defeated, but those who trust in God are able to stand firm and even win the victory. Trusting God is the safest and best choice.

v. 9: The prayer ends with a call for God to save the king: “Save, Lord