Old Testament
Psalms 18:14
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the psalmist describes God's powerful intervention in battle.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Yes, he sent out his arrows and scattered them; and he shot out lightnings and defeated them.
Yea, he sent out his arrows, and scattered them; and he shot out lightnings, and discomfited them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist describes God's powerful intervention in battle. The imagery of arrows and lightning symbolizes God's swift and decisive action against His enemies. The arrows represent His judgment, scattering those who oppose Him, while the lightning signifies His might and ability to defeat adversaries. This verse emphasizes that God is not passive; He actively fights for His people, demonstrating His sovereignty and strength. The psalmist is expressing confidence in God's ability to protect and deliver, showcasing a relationship built on trust and reliance on divine power. This vivid language serves to inspire believers, reminding them that God is a warrior who defends and supports them in times of trouble. The overall message is one of hope and assurance that God will intervene in their struggles, scattering their foes and bringing victory.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 18:14 to your life
In our daily lives, we can trust that God is actively working on our behalf, even when we face challenges. We should seek His guidance and strength, knowing that He fights for us. This encourages us to remain steadfast in faith, confident in His protection.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 18:14 mean?
Psalms 18:14 describes God's powerful intervention in battle, using imagery of arrows and lightning to symbolize His swift action against enemies. It emphasizes God's active role in protecting His people and defeating those who oppose them.
What is the significance of arrows in Psalms 18:14?
In Psalms 18:14, arrows represent God's judgment and His ability to scatter His enemies. This imagery illustrates how God decisively acts against those who oppose Him, showcasing His power and sovereignty.
What does the lightning symbolize in Psalms 18:14?
The lightning in Psalms 18:14 symbolizes God's might and ability to defeat adversaries. It highlights His swift and overwhelming power in battle, reinforcing the idea that He actively fights for His people.
How can I apply Psalms 18:14 to my life?
You can apply Psalms 18:14 by trusting that God is actively working on your behalf during challenges. Seek His guidance and strength, knowing that He fights for you and provides protection.

The Book of Psalms
Psalm 1: Two Paths
This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.
Unlock the full Psalms summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.