The Psalmist: Strength in Need

From Before The Throne by Crickett Keeth

I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. 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. 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. 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.

Psalm 121:1‭-‬8

The Book of Psalms is one of my favorites in the Bible. I often go to the psalms in my quiet times to draw my focus to God as they guide me through a time of prayer. The psalmists wrote the very thoughts I feel or want to say but don’t know how to put into words. David and the other psalmists wrote from various situations—praise and worship, discouragement, confession, needing strength and protection, even asking God to deal with their enemies. I can often relate to what they were saying.

We all find ourselves in situations when life overwhelms us and we need help. It may be a job loss, financial uncertainty, health issues, family struggles, fear of what tomorrow holds, or losing a loved one. Where do we turn when we find ourselves in need? Scripture tells us to turn to God—go before the throne. He is our help in times of trouble.

Psalm 121 is one of the Songs of Ascents. Worshipers sang these songs (Psalms 120–134) as they made their journey up to Jerusalem for the annual feasts. We don’t know who wrote this psalm, but it expresses a prayer for help from God.

A Time of Reflection

What needs or concerns are you facing today? How are you responding to them—trying to handle them on your own or turning to God for help?

How does Psalm 121 strengthen you in these hard challenges?

A Time of Prayer

Be honest with God about how you’re feeling. Use Psalm 121 to guide you through a time of prayer. Look to Him for help.

Father, thank You that I can look to You for help and know You are there. Thank You that You care about every detail of my life, and You don’t forget about me. Thank You for caring for me and providing what I need.