God’s Saving Word: Prayer
Introduction
Psalm 120: Today’s reading is from a collection of psalms (120—134) known as “Songs of Ascents.” Jerusalem is built on hills, and the Temple was located on the hill called Zion. Psalms in this collection were probably sung by pilgrims as they were “going up” to Jerusalem for one of the major festivals. Most are short and would have been easy to memorize. Today’s psalm describes a situation of strife for which the writer seeks God’s help.
Scripture Reading
A Prayer for Help
120 When I was in trouble, I called to the Lord,
and he answered me.
2 Save me, Lord,
from liars and deceivers.
3 You liars, what will God do to you?
How will he punish you?
4 With a soldier’s sharp arrows,
with red-hot coals!
5 Living among you is as bad as living in Meshech
or among the people of Kedar.[a]
6 I have lived too long
with people who hate peace!
7 When I speak of peace,
they are for war.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 120:1
When I was in trouble, I called to the LORD, and he answered me.
Reflect
What does the writer express in the opening verse? What does the writer ask of God in verse 2? Verses 3-7 seem to indicate a situation of strife. What does the writer say in verse 7? Where and for what situations will you speak words of peace today?
Pray
Whenever I am troubled, Lord God, I trust that I can call on you and that you will hear me. Protect me from those who may seek to deceive me and lead me astray. Merciful and loving God, help me to speak words of peace today. I thank and praise you for your steadfast love and care. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Psalm 122: A psalm in praise of Jerusalem