Psalm 121, 123, 124, 125, 128, 129, and 130
It looked as if we were going to be reading a lot today, but most of these Psalms are contain more than 8 verses. In fact, there are only 47 verses to read for the day, but what a lot to think about and learn. All of these Psalms state at the beginning that they are “A song for pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem.” By some, Psalms 120 – 134 are called The Pilgrim Psalms. They are all songs that would have been sung by people heading to Jerusalem as many did for Passover and the other festivals.
It kind of puzzles me that these were inserted here for us to read chronologically since, at this time, I don’t think the Tabernacle was not in Jerusalem. However, considering the topics of these Psalms, David may have written them during the time right after Saul died.
Psalm 121 is one of the Psalms I have probably heard quoted more than any except maybe the 23rd Psalm. David’s question about where his help comes from is answered in this song. Of all people, David knew his help came from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He also knew that the Lord watches over us and over Israel. Considering the history of the Jewish people and that fact that they have not been wiped out, the Lord definitely watches over Israel – He neither slumbers nor sleeps. The consistency of the Lord’s watchfulness is also referred to – “the Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.”
Psalm 123 is about our need for mercy and looking to the Lord for mercy, because mercy comes from the Lord. I am so thankful that our God is a merciful God, a God full of mercy.
In Psalm 124, David asks “what if?” He is contemplating what would have happened if the Lord had not been on their side then thanks God for His help. He knows his help if from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth.
David takes us out of this life in Psalm 125, referring to those who trust in the Lord not being defeated, but enduring forever. The Lord surrounds his people, both now and forever. His statement that “the wicked will not rule the land of the godly, for then the godly might be tempted to do wrong” started me thinking about this nation and our government sanctions, even encourages, evil. David prays that this will not happen “for then the godly might be tempted to do wrong.” Is that ever the truth!
Fear the Lord, David says in Psalm 128, and follow His ways and you will be joyful. I love his prayer in the last two verses: “May the Lord continually bless you from Zion. May you see Jerusalem prosper as long as you live. May you live to enjoy your grandchildren. May Israel have peace.”
In essence, Psalm 129 says that we can be persecuted, but we don’t have to be defeated.
Finally, Psalm 130 should bring all of us much comfort. The Lord offers forgiveness that we might learn to fear Him. Count on the Lord, long for the Lord, and hope in the Lord. With the Lord is unfailing love. Praise God that His redemption overflows, that He himself will redeem Israel from every kind of sin.
Tomorrow, it’s II Samuel 1-4.
Tonight, I am going to a Sing Live concert at 7:30 at the First Baptist Church on Kennedy in Tampa. My sister-in-law Esther will be singing with the group, but also has some solos. I’m looking forward to the music. It’s always fun.
Until next time…
No comments:
Post a Comment