Ancient Israel did not care much for chariots. Egypt had chariots. When the Israelites escaped from slavery, they rejoiced in the destruction of the Egyptian chariots and horses (Exodus 5:4). The Canaanites had chariots. When the people moved into the promised land, one thing they feared were the iron chariots of their enemies (Joshua 17:16). Philistines, Amalekites, and Syrians all had chariots. The first Israelite leaders in chariots were the usurpers, Absalom (II Samuel 15:1) and Adonijah (I Kings 1). When Solomon became a chariot and horse trader (I Kings 10:28-29), he was in violation of God’s commands for kings (Deuteronomy 17:16).

David described Israel’s feelings about chariots in one succinct statement:

“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright.” (Psalm 20:7-8)

The faithful Israelite saw the chariots as a symbol for the might of other nations. Israel’s strength does not lie in machines of war. The One standing behind Israel – in fact, His name alone – is powerful enough to protect them. They could trust in God rather than chariots and horses.

Sadly, the history of Israel shows a weak and wavering trust. The other nations have chariots, horses, idols, gold… why not include some of those things for the sake of safety? Before you shake your head and frown at their doubts, ask yourself one question: what do the nations trust in today? Am I drawn to trust in those same things?

When we put out trust in the name of the Lord our God, we will find lasting security. Don’t lean on today’s chariots… find your peace in His loving protection.