God looks for humble faith rather than outward prowess.
One of the remarkable insights found in Psalm 147 is the reminder that God’s favor is not won by human power or might. The psalmist proclaims, “He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He does not take pleasure in the legs of a man.” (v.10) Here, the image of a sturdy horse and the strong legs of a warrior represent military strength and physical capability. Such imagery would have resonated with ancient Israelites, who lived in a time when cavalry and foot soldiers were a primary means of defense. Yet this verse highlights that God’s values differ from human standards of power.
When the text says God does not delight in the strength of a horse, it emphasizes that the Lord does not hinge His pleasure on outward displays of force. Similarly, when it states He does not take pleasure in the legs of a man, it points to a deeper truth: God does not measure worth by physical skill or the ability to win battles. This runs throughout Scripture: from David’s anointing, when God looked upon the heart rather than outer appearance (1 Samuel 16:7), to the teachings of Jesus, who reiterated that faith, humility, and spiritual devotion surpass earthly displays of might (Matthew 5:5).
Together, the verse speaks of a God who treasures reliance on Him above reliance on one’s own strength. In the broader context of Psalm 147, which praises the Lord’s goodness and creative power, this passage underscores that God cherishes those who fear Him and trust in His steadfast love (Psalm 147:11). That same reverence and trust is reflected in the New Testament call for believers to rely on God’s grace rather than any human qualification (Ephesians 2:8-9).
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Psalms 147:10 meaning
One of the remarkable insights found in Psalm 147 is the reminder that God’s favor is not won by human power or might. The psalmist proclaims, “He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He does not take pleasure in the legs of a man.” (v.10) Here, the image of a sturdy horse and the strong legs of a warrior represent military strength and physical capability. Such imagery would have resonated with ancient Israelites, who lived in a time when cavalry and foot soldiers were a primary means of defense. Yet this verse highlights that God’s values differ from human standards of power.
When the text says God does not delight in the strength of a horse, it emphasizes that the Lord does not hinge His pleasure on outward displays of force. Similarly, when it states He does not take pleasure in the legs of a man, it points to a deeper truth: God does not measure worth by physical skill or the ability to win battles. This runs throughout Scripture: from David’s anointing, when God looked upon the heart rather than outer appearance (1 Samuel 16:7), to the teachings of Jesus, who reiterated that faith, humility, and spiritual devotion surpass earthly displays of might (Matthew 5:5).
Together, the verse speaks of a God who treasures reliance on Him above reliance on one’s own strength. In the broader context of Psalm 147, which praises the Lord’s goodness and creative power, this passage underscores that God cherishes those who fear Him and trust in His steadfast love (Psalm 147:11). That same reverence and trust is reflected in the New Testament call for believers to rely on God’s grace rather than any human qualification (Ephesians 2:8-9).