Psalms 60:11
Give us help from trouble: for vain is the help of man.
Psalms 60:11
“Give us help from trouble: for vain is the help of man.” This verse is a concise plea for divine aid in distress. It explicitly critiques reliance on human resources alone, acknowledging their limitations. The context is a national crisis—enemies pressing in, resources stretched, and opportunities for strategic success limited. The psalmist recognizes that human schemes, unless blessed by God, are ultimately ineffective. The line is a sober reminder that true deliverance comes from God, not merely from human ingenuity or strength.
Theologically, this verse aligns with a consistent biblical theme: human dependence on God is essential. It foregrounds the doctrine of divine sovereignty and human limitation, inviting faithful trust in God’s power rather than human vanity. It also challenges believers to evaluate their reliance on wealth, military power, or political alliances as ultimate sources of security, redirecting trust to God as the true helper in trouble.
In everyday life, when faced with problems that seem unsolvable by human means, turn to God in prayer and caveat-laden plans. Practical steps: fast and pray for deliverance, seek spiritual counsel, and pursue wise, biblically informed decisions while acknowledging dependence on God. Also, recognize the value of community support—prayer circles, pastoral care, and mutual aid—as part of God’s provision, while keeping ultimate trust in Him.
Cross-References: Psalm 33:16; Psalm 60:12; Isaiah 31:1; Jeremiah 17:5; 1 Corinthians 1:25