InstaStudy

Journeying with God: Exploring the Psalms of Ascent

A study of the Psalms of Ascent (120-134), focusing on themes of pilgrimage, trust in God, and the blessings of unity.

1. Distress and Dependence

1.1 A Cry for Deliverance (Psalm 120)

Verses: Psalm 120:1-2
  • The psalmist cries out to God in distress, acknowledging the deceitful world around them.
  • God's deliverance is sought from lying lips and a deceitful tongue.

1.2 Longing for Peace (Psalm 120)

Verses: Psalm 120:6-7
  • The psalmist expresses a desire for peace, even when surrounded by those who hate it.
  • Despite opposition, the psalmist identifies as a follower of God, committed to peace.

2. Assurance of Divine Protection

2.1 God as Our Keeper (Psalm 121)

Verses: Psalm 121:1-4
  • The psalmist affirms that true help comes from the Lord, the Creator of heaven and earth.
  • God's protection is constant and unwavering; He neither slumbers nor sleeps.

2.2 Eternal Protection (Psalm 121)

Verses: Psalm 121:7-8
  • The Lord preserves His people from all evil, watching over their souls.
  • God's protection extends from this time forth and even forevermore.

3. The Joy of Worship in Unity

3.1 Joyful Pilgrimage (Psalm 122)

Verses: Psalm 122:1-4
  • The psalmist rejoices in the opportunity to go to the house of the Lord.
  • Jerusalem is depicted as a city that is compact and unified.

3.2 Praying for Peace (Psalm 122)

Verses: Psalm 122:6-9
  • Prayers are offered for the peace of Jerusalem, recognizing that prosperity comes through God.
  • The psalmist expresses a desire for the well-being of Jerusalem because of their connection to the house of the Lord.

4. Looking to God in Humility

4.1 Waiting on God's Mercy (Psalm 123)

Verses: Psalm 123:1-4
  • The psalmist acknowledges dependence on God, looking to Him for mercy.
  • The soul is filled with contempt from those who are at ease and scorn from the proud.

5. Gratitude for Deliverance

5.1 God as Our Deliverer (Psalm 124)

Verses: Psalm 124:1-5
  • The psalmist acknowledges that if the Lord had not been on their side, they would have been overwhelmed by their enemies.
  • The imagery of a flood is used to describe the overwhelming nature of the opposition.

5.2 Praise for Deliverance (Psalm 124)

Verses: Psalm 124:6-8
  • The psalmist praises God for delivering them from the snare of the fowler.
  • Their help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.