Ascending 

Psalm 121

Here’s a basic navigational principle: Where you direct your eyes has immense importance on the quality of your journey. This particular Psalm is a particular genre called “songs of Ascent” and these were written to God’s people for their journey to Jerusalem for worship and celebration. The geography of that journey was a gradual “ascent” to the Holy City. Furthermore, ancient travel had its various dangers and challenges so these particular Psalms were written to help these faithful travelers remember that worship, not mere religious duty, is the fuel for their journey. 

The words of this particular Psalm not only call for God’s people to “lift their eyes to the hills” but reminds them of the kind of God that will help them lift those tired and droopy eyes. This is God is Creator, Sustainer, Protector...And He is faithful to His children forevermore! How can we fight against unbelief of these promises? 

Because these promises are as certain as God’s own Son. Centuries after this Psalm was written, the Apostle Paul states triumphantly that all the promises of God find their “yes” in the person and work of Jesus (2 Cor 1:20). Yes, our journey toward the new creation is full of potholes, heartaches, and tears but let us continually gaze on the One who is faithful and has defeated the ultimate power of hell and death to bring us into His eternal home. 

Lord Jesus, help me direct the gaze of my heart and mind on your never ending and never changing character. Amen. 

Family Connection: Take your family on a hike or a walk around the neighborhood. Read through Psalm 121 and talk about how God is with us everywhere we go. He is our “shade on our right hand” and will keep us in His care every step that we take. 

Memorize Psalm 121:2, “My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”