Psalm 120

The first of the 'songs of ascent' (120-134).  Tradition says that these songs were sung by the pilgrims as they made their way to Jerusalem for worship.  The city was on a high place, surrounded by mountains and hills.  

This first song is that of one far from the temple, among pagan lands.  He had cried out to God, with the prayer of verse 2:  Deliver me from lying lips and deceit.  Later he clarifies that he lives among pagans, in a place far from Jerusalem.  He tries to speak peace to his enemies all around, but they are not interested......they want war instead.  It seems he longs to live in the peace that he finds among God's people in Jerusalem.   But in verse 3, he speaks something else he knows.......that judgement will be returned to his enemies.....and the damage will be much like that done by the lies they speak now!  

I wonder, too, if perhaps the lies spoken refer to the derision of other nations regarding Israel's 'unseen' God.   Recall another psalm, where they are asked , "Where is your God?"   The pagans had visible gods,.....dead and lifeless.   They worshipers required a form in order to believe in their made up gods.   But Israel's answer was this.......our God lives in the heavens.  He requires no form!    Perhaps, this psalm is a response to such taunting.  

I hear a weariness and anticipation in his voice......so tired of the struggles, but oh so excited to be traveling to the place of worship!  

I am the same way much of the time, and thankful for it.  I do, indeed, grow so weary of the struggles.  But I love the day of worship, and the peace found with fellow believers and in God's presence.