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Psalms 120

World English Bible

WEB

1A Song of Ascents. In my distress, I cried to Yahweh. He answered me. 2Deliver my soul, Yahweh, from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue. 3What will be given to you, and what will be done more to you, you deceitful tongue? 4Sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals of juniper. 5Woe is me, that I live in Meshech, that I dwell among the tents of Kedar! 6My soul has had her dwelling too long with him who hates peace. 7I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war.

World English Bible, 2020 stable text edition. Public domain; “World English Bible” is a trademark of eBible.org. eBible.org

Overview

Psalms 120 is a heartfelt cry from the depths of distress, marking the beginning of the Songs of Ascents. The psalmist expresses a deep sense of anguish and isolation, calling out to the Lord in a time of trouble. The opening verse states, "In my distress, I cried unto the Lord, and he heard me" (Psalm 120:1). This sets the tone for the chapter, emphasizing the importance of prayer and reliance on God during difficult times. The psalmist seeks deliverance from deceitful lips and a lying tongue, highlighting the pain caused by falsehood and the need for divine intervention against those who speak maliciously. The psalmist's plea reflects a universal human experience of seeking truth and justice in a world filled with dishonesty.

The latter part of the psalm contrasts the psalmist's longing for peace with the reality of conflict. The psalmist states, "I am for peace: but when I speak, they are for war" (Psalm 120:7). This verse encapsulates the struggle between the desire for harmony and the presence of hostility. The psalmist's experience resonates with many who find themselves in situations where their intentions for peace are met with aggression. Ultimately, Psalms 120 serves as a reminder of the importance of turning to God in times of distress and the assurance that He hears our cries, providing comfort and strength amidst turmoil.

In summary, Psalms 120 invites believers to bring their troubles before the Lord, trusting in His ability to deliver and provide peace in a world often filled with strife and deceit. #Psalms #SongsOfAscents #Prayer #Distress #Peace

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