I am in favor of peace; but when I speak, they want war. I am for peaceThe phrase "I am for peace" reflects a deep yearning and commitment to harmony and reconciliation. The Hebrew word for "peace" here is "shalom," which encompasses not just the absence of conflict but a holistic sense of well-being, completeness, and prosperity. In the historical context of ancient Israel, "shalom" was a foundational concept, deeply embedded in the social and religious fabric of the community. The psalmist's declaration of being for peace suggests a personal alignment with God's desire for His people to live in unity and mutual respect. This commitment to peace is a reflection of the divine character, as God is often described as the God of peace throughout the Scriptures. In a world filled with strife and division, the psalmist's stance is both countercultural and prophetic, calling believers to be ambassadors of peace in their own lives. but when I speak they are for war Persons / Places / Events 1. The PsalmistThe author of Psalm 120, traditionally attributed to David, who expresses a personal lament and a desire for peace amidst conflict. 2. Enemies of Peace The unspecified adversaries who oppose the psalmist's desire for peace and instead seek conflict. 3. Mesech and Kedar Mentioned earlier in Psalm 120, these are symbolic representations of hostile and foreign lands, indicating the psalmist's feeling of being surrounded by those who do not share his values. Teaching Points The Pursuit of PeaceAs believers, we are called to be peacemakers, actively seeking to resolve conflicts and promote harmony in our relationships and communities. The Reality of Opposition Even when we desire peace, we may encounter resistance and hostility. This should not deter us from our commitment to peace. Spiritual Warfare Recognize that the desire for peace is often met with spiritual opposition. We must be prepared to engage in spiritual warfare through prayer and reliance on God's strength. The Role of Speech Our words have the power to either escalate conflict or promote peace. We must be mindful of how we communicate, ensuring that our speech aligns with our desire for peace. Trust in God's Justice When faced with opposition, trust that God sees and will ultimately bring justice. Our role is to remain faithful in our pursuit of peace. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the psalmist's experience in Psalm 120:7 reflect the challenges we face in pursuing peace today?2. In what ways can we actively pursue peace in our personal relationships and communities, according to biblical principles? 3. How does the teaching of Jesus in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:9) inform our understanding of being peacemakers? 4. What practical steps can we take to ensure our speech promotes peace rather than conflict, as suggested by James 3:18? 5. How can we find encouragement and strength in God's promises when we face opposition in our efforts to promote peace? Connections to Other Scriptures Matthew 5:9Jesus' teaching on the blessedness of peacemakers, highlighting the value of peace in the Kingdom of God. Romans 12:18 Paul's exhortation to live at peace with everyone, as far as it depends on us, reinforcing the call to pursue peace. James 3:18 The connection between righteousness and peace, emphasizing that peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
People Kedar, Mesech, Meshech, PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics 121, Peace, Psalm, Song, Speak, WarDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 120:7Library Epistle Lxxviii. To Barbara and Antonina . To Barbara and Antonina [186] . Gregory to Barbara, &c. On receiving your epistles, I was in all manner of ways delighted to hear of your well being, and I entreat Almighty God that He would guard you by His protection from malignant spirits in thought, and from perverse men, and from all contrariety; and that He would, with the grace of His fear, settle you in unions worthy of you, and cause us all to rejoice in your settlement [187] . But do you, most sweet daughters, rest your hope on His help, … Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great That all Troubles are to be Endured for the Sake of Eternal Life Question Lxxxii of Devotion Of Love to God St. Malachy Becomes Bishop of Connor; He Builds the Monastery of iveragh. Question Lxxxiii of Prayer Concerning Peaceableness Psalms Links Psalm 120:7 NIVPsalm 120:7 NLT Psalm 120:7 ESV Psalm 120:7 NASB Psalm 120:7 KJV Psalm 120:7 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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