What do you do when you feel surrounded by deceit and hostility?
Psalm 120 begins the Songs of Ascents, a collection of psalms sung by pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem. It reflects the cry of a heart seeking deliverance from deceit and longing for peace, reminding us to trust in God as our refuge in times of distress.
Key Verse:
“I call on the Lord in my distress, and He answers me.” – Psalm 120:1 (NIV)
Background Context:
Psalm 120 is a song of lament, expressing the psalmist’s distress over living among deceitful and hostile people. This psalm serves as a reminder that in a world filled with falsehood and conflict, our hope and peace are found in God alone. It marks the beginning of a spiritual journey, calling believers to turn to God in times of trouble and trust Him for deliverance.
(Continued and expanded after scripture.)
Prayer for Deliverance from the Treacherous.
A Song of Ascents.
1In my trouble I cried to the LORD,
And He answered me.
2Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips,
From a deceitful tongue.
3What shall be given to you, and what more shall be done to you,
You deceitful tongue?
4Sharp arrows of the warrior,
With the burning coals of the broom tree.
5Woe is me, for I sojourn in Meshech,
For I dwell among the tents of Kedar!
6Too long has my soul had its dwelling
With those who hate peace.
7I am for peace, but when I speak,
They are for war.
Reflection on Psalm 120:
- Calling on God in Distress:
The psalmist begins by acknowledging that God hears and answers their cry (Psalm 120:1). This declaration of trust reminds us to bring our struggles to the Lord, knowing He is attentive and faithful. Are you turning to God in your times of distress? Bring your burdens to Him, trusting in His ability to deliver you. - The Pain of Deceit and Hostility:
The psalmist laments living among deceitful people, describing the lies and hostility that surround them (Psalm 120:2-5). This resonates with those who face false accusations or conflict. Are you seeking God’s truth and peace in the midst of a deceitful world? Let His Word guide you and strengthen you against falsehood. - Longing for Peace:
The psalmist expresses a longing for peace but acknowledges the reality of conflict (Psalm 120:6-7). This tension highlights the challenge of living faithfully in a fallen world. Are you pursuing peace in your relationships and circumstances? Seek to be a peacemaker, trusting that God’s peace will ultimately prevail. - God as the Source of Deliverance:
Throughout the psalm, the psalmist’s focus remains on God as the one who delivers and sustains them. This trust in God’s sovereignty and justice provides hope and strength. Are you relying on God as your refuge and deliverer? Lean on Him, knowing He is your stronghold in times of trouble.
Summary Key Points:
- Turn to God in Times of Distress: He hears your cries and answers with His faithfulness.
- Seek Truth in a World of Deceit: God’s Word is a light in the midst of falsehood.
- Long for Peace but Trust in God’s Justice: Be a peacemaker, knowing God’s peace will prevail.
- God Is Your Deliverer: Trust in His sovereignty and care as your refuge and strength.
Application:
Bring your burdens and distress to God in prayer, trusting in His faithfulness to deliver and sustain you. Reflect on areas in your life where you may face deceit or conflict, and ask God for wisdom and strength to navigate them with grace and truth. Commit to pursuing peace in your relationships, trusting that God’s ultimate justice will prevail.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for being our refuge and deliverer in times of distress. Help us to trust in Your faithfulness and bring our struggles to You in prayer. Strengthen us to stand firm in Your truth and to seek peace in our relationships and circumstances. Thank You for Your sovereignty and care, guiding us through every challenge. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
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