Psalms 124
Psalm 124 consists of a total of eight verses and is classified as a psalm of David. This psalm is a song of thanksgiving and praise that recalls Israel’s experience of being delivered by God’s help amid a crisis of suffering. In the first two verses (verses 1-2), you are prompted to reflect on what might have happened if God had not been on our side. Then, in verses 3-5, it explains specifically what kinds of disasters (people’s anger, turbulent waters, rivers bursting forth, overflowing water, and the like) sought to swallow Israel. In verses 6-7, it vividly describes how God rescued them in such a crisis and expresses heartfelt gratitude to God. In the final verse, verse 8, it closes the passage with a declarative confession that this salvation comes only from God.
1verseA Song of Ascents. By David. If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, let Israel now say,
2verseif it had not been the LORD who was on our side, when men rose up against us,
3versethen they would have swallowed us up alive, when their wrath was kindled against us,
4versethen the waters would have overwhelmed us, the stream would have gone over our soul.
5verseThen the proud waters would have gone over our soul.
6verseBlessed be the LORD, who has not given us as a prey to their teeth.
7verseOur soul has escaped like a bird out of the fowler’s snare. The snare is broken, and we have escaped.
8verseOur help is in the LORD’s name, who made heaven and earth.
Key Meaning and Characteristics
The central theme of this psalm is a faith confession: “God helped us.” The psalmist emphasizes that although there were disasters and times of crisis, they were spared from destruction because God was with them, and thus they received deliverance. By using contrasting images (when God was present and when God was not), it highlights the absolute importance of God’s help. This psalm is meant to be praised as a community, and it also carries the character of encouraging people to turn their attention to God and to give thanks at every dangerous moment.
Points for Reflection
- Remember how God saved you in the midst of past difficulties.
- Let’s reflect on what it means in your life to confess, “God is on my side.”
- In moments of crisis, you can check for yourself who you rely on.
Try Applying It to Yourself
- Let’s live a life of gratitude by acknowledging God’s help amid everyday dangers large and small.
- Share God’s grace with the people around you, and look for opportunities to offer a shared confession of thanks within the community.
