Psalms 21:12
Therefore shalt thou make them turn their back, when thou shalt make ready thine arrows upon thy strings against the face of them.
Psalms 21:12
This verse depicts God’s response to adversaries by turning their backs when he prepares his arrows on the strings—an image of decisive military or symbolic divine reversal. It continues the theme of God’s immediate intervention against those who oppose His anointed. The reversal implies that those who sought to confront or harm the king will themselves be exposed to danger and retreat in fear. The imagery of arrows ready for action situates the scene in a contested space where divine justice acts with precision.
Thematically, the verse emphasizes God’s active protection of the righteous and His control over hostile forces. It also reinforces the certainty that evil plans fail in the face of divine preparedness. It prompts reflection on how God’s righteousness sometimes manifests as strategic, even tactical, deliverance. The passage invites humility before God, acknowledging that human plans are fragile and that trust in God’s timing and method is essential.
For today, the verse can reassure those facing calculated opposition—whether in personal life, work, or public life—that God sees the schemes and is in control. It encourages prudent restraint and reliance on God rather than impulsive retaliation. Practically, it suggests steps like seeking wise counsel, praying for discernment, and choosing peaceful, lawful means to advocate for justice. It also invites believers to cultivate a posture of readiness—spending time in prayer and Scripture so they’re prepared for sudden shifts when God acts.
Cross-References
- Psalm 27:3-5
- Isaiah 54:17
- Romans 12:19-21
- 2 Thessalonians 3:3-5