There are times in all our lives, when we become weary; weighed down by the cares of life or just exhausted by the pace of life. It is in those times, when I am tired and worn out, God is not! He is the God who is always by our side. Psalm 121 is a wonderful picture of this aspect of our God.
The psalm is a song of confession and assurance; it is liturgical in nature, a pilgrimage song. The words of Psalm 121 would be recited or shared together as God’s people travelled to Jerusalem to participate in / celebrate the feasts. But it was also a reflection of the heart of God’s people; what they believed about their journey through life.
I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? (1)
In those days, travel was often dangerous, the hills and mountains where not safe places. The Psalmist says when I look around me, it can be scary. Where do I turn to find help, where do I turn to find strength and courage?
My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. (2)
This is a confession, a statement of what they believed. The word help is a military term; it means ‘help in the battle’. The people of Israel believed their help was from God himself, Yahweh, the One who created all that there is.
He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. (3-4)
These are words of assurance! Our God works the night shift--keeping watch, guarding and protecting.
The LORD watches over you—the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. (5-6)
The scorching sun in the Middle East was a threat to travelers. Just as shade provides protection from the sun’s heat, so God protects / shields those who belong to Him. Day or night, there is no time when He does not watch over us; His protective care will abide with us throughout life’s journey.
The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. (7-8)
He is the God who walks with you; watching, guarding our steps, protecting and screening us from those things which would seek to harm us. And, He is the God who sits up with you when you’re feeling vulnerable and afraid. And when the morning breaks, Jeremiahs says the new day brings more of His mercy, grace and kindness; for He is a faithful God; He is ferociously devoted to you.
Yahweh, the Creator of heaven and earth, the God who never slumbers or sleeps is for us! He is the God who sits up with you!