Psalms of Ascent

Psalms 120-134

Psalm 120

• Collection of distressed individuals

• Lying lips and deceitful tongue

• Promise of the Lord’s punishment

• Issues of peace and war

Psalm 121• I lift up my eyes to the mountains

• Where does my help come from?

• Notice shift from “I” to “you”

• Lord’s care—”watches over you”

• Images of difficulties

• Promises of His faithfulness

Psalm 122• One of the most explicit about ascent

• Notice what gives joy

• Vv. 3-5 description of Jerusalem

• Pray for the peace of Israel

• For the sake of two things

Psalm 123• Ascent language…”I lift up my eyes”

• Notice where God is

• Metaphors of dependence

• Calls for mercy

• What we have endured

Psalm 125• V. 1--Those who trust in the Lord

• V. 2—Metaphor of Lord’s constant care

• V. 3—Scepter of the wicked

• V. 4—Do good to those who are good

• V. 5—The Lord will banish

Psalm 124• No superscription to help us with context

• Did Israel escape from ferocious battle almost lost?

• If the Lord had not been on our side…(twice)

• Vv. 3-5 description of how bad it would have been

• Praise to the Lord, maker of heaven and earth