Psalms 121
Psalm 121 is classified as the 'Song of Ascents' (a hymn sung when ascending to the temple). This psalm consists of eight stanzas and is divided into two parts, in which the psalmist expresses a desire for help and protection. Verses 1-2 look up at the mountains and ask where help will come from, before being certain that, 'My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.' And in verses 3-8, the psalmist repeatedly proclaims that the LORD God is the one who keeps and protects. In particular, it says that God will not let a person's foot slip, that He does not sleep, and that He protects from the sun, the moon, and every evil thing.
1verseA Song of Ascents. I will lift up my eyes to the hills. Where does my help come from?
2verseMy help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.
3verseHe will not allow your foot to be moved. He who keeps you will not slumber.
4verseBehold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
5verseThe LORD is your keeper. The LORD is your shade on your right hand.
6verseThe sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
7verseThe LORD will keep you from all evil. He will keep your soul.
8verseThe LORD will keep your going out and your coming in, from this time forward, and forever more.
Key Content and Meaning
The most prominent theme in this passage is 'protection that God provides.' Instead of the mountains (idols, the powers of the world, etc.) that people often expect, the psalmist seeks help from the Creator God. Also, the words 'keeps' and 'protects' are used repeatedly, emphasizing the fact that in every moment of daily life (day and night, going out and coming in, now and forever), God is with us. This helps those walking the path of faith realize that when worry and fear come, only God gives true safety and peace.
Points to Ponder
- When I need help, where am I turning for help?
- What comfort does the fact that God 'does not sleep' and keeps me give to my heart?
- Like the psalmist's confession, am I living by trusting God's care in every area of my life?
Try Applying It to Me
- In the face of difficulty or uncertain circumstances, I can decide to lift my eyes to God first and live a life of prayer.
- If there is anything I worry about or fear, remember the words of the passage today, and entrust yourself by trusting in God's protection.
