There are weeks which can be challenging. Each situation in themselves would be easy to handle, it’s when they seem to converge all in the same week that makes each hurdle seem larger.
A return to the psalms presents the solution for just those weeks as the psalmist penned the very question we all may ask at one point: “From where shall my help come?“ (Psalm 121:1, NASB)
We might even think of possible sources depending on the sort of help we need.
But the psalmist doesn’t just ask the question, he also reminds us to lift our eyes and see the true source of all the help we need – “My help comes from the Lord.” (verse 2, NASB)
As I read the psalm, I was struck with several thoughts:
- verse 4 – God “will never slumber or sleep.” I knew this and perhaps took it lightly (?) as it fell so powerfully with my recent reading. God does not sleep. Not ever. His eyes are always open and on us. He is not ever fatigued and unable to focus or pay attention to us.
- verse 5 – “The Lord is your keeper.” As our keeper, He oversees our every need for protection and nourishment. He is caring for our well-being physically, emotionally and most importantly, spiritually.
- verse 8 – The Lord guards our going about “from this time forth and forever.” He is the protection we need 24/7. We are never without Him.
The psalmist reminds us once again in Psalm 123: “To You I lift up my eyes” (verse 1, NASB).
This is such an important thing to remember, and it was the second time in a week I read words expressing the lifting of our eyes.
As our eyes are lifted upward, our focus is above the circumstances in our lives. They are settled on “the One who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:2) and “the One who is enthroned in the heavens” (Psalm 123:1).
With our eyes lifted upward, we are reminded of the One who is sovereign and all powerful.
It was the second part of verse 2 which stood out to me: “So our eyes look to the Lord our God, until He is gracious to us” (NASB).
The psalmist tells us where to look (to the Lord our God) and for how long (until).
We do not ever stop looking to the Lord. We keep looking to Him until He answers or comes.
“My eyes are continually toward the Lord.” (Psalm 25:15, NASB)
May we lift our eyes to the Lord –
the One who made heaven and earth, and is enthroned in the heavens –
continually.
The Lord can bring wisdom and understanding simply by reading Scripture. In these strange days we are living, Lisa Brittain reminds us let God become our greatest craving. Read her post Walk with the Wise HERE.
Come, sit a spell. Bring your coffee, your posts, and your thoughts. If you link up, kindly visit those who have drawn up a seat around you
Image by Salih Altuntaş from Pixabay
It’s comforting to read Psalms & to remember that they were sung to the Lord in worship Joanne.
Thank you for this post reminding us that God is always watching over us. I hope you have a great week.
Blessings, Jennifer ☺️
We can get so caught up in what Jesus called “the cares of this life.” How we need to look up to Him at all times.
It occurs to me that if my eyes are on the Lord, many of the other things that disturb and distract won’t take center stage.
“The things of earth will grow strangely dim…”
Psalm 121 is one of my all-time favorites, Joanne. So relevant and comforting for these turbulent times. We might feel helpless, but there IS something we can do: Lift our eyes to the Lord. Hugs, friend.
Love Psalm 121, Joanne! Truly one of my favorites, especially when I am feeling alone or struggling with life’s trials. Our true help always comes from the Lord!
Dear Joanne, even the phrase ‘return to the Psalms’ breathes hope, grace, and peace. I am so grateful for God’s precious Word.
Yes, friend !
Eyes on Jesus and shine… Hebrews 12:1-2 fix our eyes on Jesus and lay aside the things that entangle us…
Psalm 34:5 those who look to Him are radiant… no more shame…
Yes, let us keep our gaze upon Jesus, our helper, defender, savior, and King.
The Psalms are so good at redirecting our attention. Love this one.
It’s like building a muscle through repetition – to keep our eyes on him – and, oh, how that makes such a difference – in the big and little things – and when schedules converge! I’m trying to do that today – and reminding myself to keep my eyes on Him. Your post is such a good shepherding post to remind!
I’m so thankful that when we lift our eyes to Him, He sends us His help (Ps 121). He is faithful and trustworthy!
May we always keep our eyes trained on Jesus. Thank you, Joanne.
Psalm 121 is one I return to often, especially during times of uncertainty! I love the song you shared – I’ve never heard it! Have a wonderful week, Joanne!