Psalms 21:13

Psalms 21:13

A doxology closes the royal psalm: “Be thou exalted, LORD, in thine own strength: so will we sing and praise thy power.” The king’s victory leads to public worship, directing all praise to God’s strength rather than human prowess. The verse ties personal or national triumph to reverent acknowledgment of God as the source of power. The worshipful conclusion reflects an appropriate response to God’s acts: exaltation of God’s character, power, and faithful steadfastness.

This verse centers on worship and the primacy of God’s strength. It reinforces the biblical pattern that human success is ultimately a gift from God and should lead to praise, gratitude, and trust. It also emphasizes communal worship—declaring God’s power to all. Theologically, it counters self-reliance and pride by redirecting glory back to God, reminding believers that victory is for the purpose of furthering God’s mission and character in the world.

Practically, this invites believers to end praise sessions with a deliberate turn toward God: in times of success, practice thanksgiving through prayer, worship, or acts of service. It’s a reminder not to celebrate achievement as a personal trophy but as a sign of God’s goodness at work. In leadership contexts, it supports a culture of humility—crediting God in public announcements and using wins to build up others rather than to inflate ego. It also encourages ongoing dependence on God’s strength in daily tasks, friendships, and stewardship.

Cross-References

- Psalm 33:1-3

- Psalm 29:1-2

- 1 Chronicles 16:8-12

- Philippians 4:13

- Revelation 4:11