Overview of Psalm 120

Introduction

Psalm 120 is the first of the fifteen Songs of Ascents, traditionally sung by pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem for the major Jewish festivals. This psalm expresses a cry for deliverance from deceit and hostility, highlighting the struggles of living in a world that often opposes godly values.

Cry for Deliverance from Falsehood (Psalm 120:1-4)

The psalmist begins by recounting his distress and how he called to the Lord, who answered him. This sets the stage for a lament about living among deceitful people.

Distress Among the Deceitful

This section portrays the psalmist’s anguish over being surrounded by lying and deceitful tongues, reflecting his desire for truth and integrity in human interactions. He cries out for deliverance, illustrating the tension between the godly and the ungodly.

Consequences for the Deceitful (Psalm 120:5-7)

The psalmist laments his residence among hostile nations, specifically Meshech and Kedar, which were known for their barbaric and warlike nature. He expresses a deep longing for peace, contrasting his peaceful intentions with the warlike inclinations of his neighbors.

Lament Over Constant Conflict

Here, the focus is on the weariness that comes from living in constant opposition, where even the desire for peace is met with preparations for war. The psalmist’s situation mirrors the struggles many believers face in environments hostile to their faith and values.

Connections and Theological Implications

Connection to Jesus Christ

Psalm 120 connects to Jesus Christ through its themes of suffering from falsehood and longing for deliverance. Christ Himself experienced deceit and hostility from those around Him, especially in the events leading to His crucifixion. His response-prayer for deliverance and commitment to God’s will-models how believers can navigate their own struggles with deceit and opposition. Furthermore, Christ’s teachings on peace and reconciliation provide a New Testament counterpart to the psalmist’s lament over conflict.

God’s Love for the World

This psalm demonstrates God’s love by showing that He hears and responds to the cries of those who are distressed by falsehood and conflict. It underscores God’s commitment to truth and His aversion to deceit, highlighting His readiness to provide refuge and deliverance to those who seek Him earnestly.

Relevance Today

Psalm 120 remains profoundly relevant today for several reasons:

• Encouragement in Spiritual Struggle: It provides solace and validation for those who feel isolated or persecuted because of their integrity and faith, offering a voice to their struggles and a reminder that they are not alone.
• Guide for Responding to Conflict: The psalm acts as a guide on how to pray and seek divine intervention when faced with deceit or hostility, emphasizing the power of turning to God in times of trouble.
• Inspiration for Peaceful Living: It inspires believers to maintain a commitment to peace, even when surrounded by conflict, encouraging them to embody Christ’s teachings on peacemaking in their daily lives.

Psalm 120 not only articulates the trials of living among the deceitful but also serves as a call to maintain faith and integrity, relying on God’s deliverance and protection. It reminds believers of the importance of seeking and promoting peace, despite the challenges that may arise.