A song of ascents.....traditionally sung by pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem for worship.
The first song (Ps 120) spoke of a weariness of living so far away among those who want war and not peace.
Now it seems the traveler is nearing Jerusalem....and can see the hills surrounding it. Study notes indicate that this was possibly a dialogue.....sung responsively. Verses 1-2 is spoken by the pilgrims, while the rest of the psalm is spoken to them.
Looking toward the goal.....Jerusalem, the traveler sees the hills surrounding Jerusalem. I hear dual tones in the speech of v.1-2. First there is a joy in nearing the destination. Second, fear. The journey has been long and dangerous, and will be more so through the hills. Narrow, rocky paths facilitate falls and hide dangers lurking around the bend. Bandits were known to be active there, for there were places to hide. Also, animals were a menace.
Whether joy or fear......the confidence is sure that the Lord will be his help! Help to keep going. Help to protect. Help to provide.
He will be our help all the time.....night or day. He will protect from the very things He created! He is sovereign over all. The pagan gods could do no such thing. Also, the pagan gods had human characteristics, and needed sleep. Our God neither slumbers or sleeps. He is not tired. He is never distracted. He is our keeper.
The word 'keep' is used multiple times. What a comforting word. To keep something means to hold it close, protect it, and cherish it. God keeps us!
and He will keep us forever more. Not only in the immediate journey, but in the entire journey of life, to bring us into His presence for eternity.
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