Psalm 121 is a psalm of ascents. This group of psalms were traditionally sung by pilgrims in the regular ‘ascent’ to Jerusalem for the sacred feasts. The “hills” or “mountains” being spoken of here are specifically those of Mount Zion (Jerusalem). Jerusalem, with the temple in its midst, was the place where God promised to dwell with his people. The temple symbolised the covenant relationship by which God had bound himself to his people. So ‘ lifting one’s eyes to the hills’ meant reminding oneself of who we worship and what he has promised. One of these promises is that of constant parental care. When the psalm talks about God “watching over” us, the idea is that of a parent vigilantly watching a child to keep them safe. This is how God cares for you. His care does not mean that you will not go through difficult times. What it means is that, through these difficult times, “he will not let your foot slip.” In other words, you will not be swept away from him. The God who leads you will lead you in the trouble, and out the other side. No amount of trouble, not even death itself, will snatch you from his hand or thwart the purpose he has for you. In all your coming and going you are covered by a love that as constant as God is great and unchanging. He will bring you home safely!
Submit your concerns to God.
Read Psalm 121
