Psalms 118:8

8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.

Psalms 118:8 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 118:8

[It is] better to trust in the Lord
This, with what follows in ( Psalms 118:9 ) , is the conclusion from the above premises and experience; it is good to trust in the Lord; such enjoy peace, are in safety, shall not want any good thing, nor ever be ashamed and confounded: the Targum is,

``it is better to trust in the Word of the Lord;''

than to put confidence in man;
it is not good to put confidence in man at all; it is trusting to a broken staff, to a mere shadow, which can yield no support or relief: it is best to trust in the Lord; he is able to help, as well as willing; he is faithful to his word, and unchangeable in his promises; whereas man, though he may have a will to help, oftentimes has it not in his power; and when it is in his power, and has promised it, he disappoints, being changeable or unfaithful. Wherefore trust not in man, but in the Lord; yea, cursed is the man that trusts in man; see ( Jeremiah 17:5 ) .

Psalms 118:8 In-Context

6 The Lord is for me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

7 With the Lord for me as my helper, I will look in triumph on those who hate me.

8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.

9 It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in nobles.

10 All the nations surrounded me; in the name of the Lord I destroyed them.