Psalm 149:6

Psalm 149:6

The double-edged sword

Well, this is a surprise, praising the Lord becomes a military matter! Remember that we are talking primarily about Israel, although, of course, there are lessons for the modern-day church here. As we all go into battle, we don’t sing the songs of the world but instead, we praise the name of our God. It doesn’t matter if the battle is in the trenches, or in the boardroom, whether it is in a classroom of uncooperative kids or an office of gossiping busybodies, wherever we are at war we need to keep the praises of God in our mouths.

But, the Psalm goes further for it identifies the kind of weaponry that the Lord God calls upon His children to carry with them. A double-edged sword is in their hands. Immediately, our thoughts go to Hebrews 4:12 where the same imagery is used, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow, it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” 

A double-edged sword was regarded as a masterful weapon; it could be used from any angle and allowed rapid slashing and thrusting. If one edge dulled or was damaged, the sword was still useable, and the combatant could keep fighting. 

It is surely a privilege to brandish the sword of the Lord, which is His Word; this verse is all about words, the way we use them and the power that is manifested through them. Be they words of praise that come easily to our lips or the Word of God that is impossible for the enemy to overcome. Think about it, when Jesus was tested what did He do, go into a rage and start threatening His enemy? No, He simply spoke the Word of God. Hallelujah!