Psalms 124:6
Blessed be the LORD, who hath not given us as a prey to their teeth.
Psalms 124:6
“Blessed be the LORD, who hath not given us as a prey to their teeth.” The image of being preyed upon by teeth is stark and visceral, depicting predatory violence. This verse frames deliverance as God’s active protection: He preserves the faithful from being torn apart by enemies. The shift to praise after recounting danger reflects a common biblical pattern: recount danger, declare God’s mercy, respond with worship. It is a communal confession of gratitude rooted in a specific historical moment, but the principle applies across generations: God’s people are protected by His sovereignty even when threats are imminent and ferocious.
The verse highlights divine guardianship and the moral order that God upholds. It demonstrates that God’s mercy extends to preventing physical harm and preserving life from predation. It also reinforces an ethic of gratitude and worship as appropriate responses to God’s saving acts. Theologically, it connects to themes of covenant fidelity, divine protection, and the community’s identity as God’s protected people.
Today, this can translate into recognizing and naming the ways God preserves us from harm—whether literal danger, or threats to our peace, relationships, or mission. It invites gratitude in everyday life and humility before God. Practically, consider safety planning, community safety networks, or advocacy for vulnerable people, aligning action with trust in God’s protection. When danger threatens, this verse encourages praising God even before full relief arrives because of confidence in His faithfulness.
Cross-References: Psalm 18:32-36; Psalm 27:1; Psalm 91:1-2; Deuteronomy 32:10-12