Psalm 123:2

As the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maidservant look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes are on the LORD our God until He shows us mercy.

Study Bible

As the eyes of servants
This phrase draws a vivid picture of the relationship between a servant and their master. In the ancient Near Eastern context, servants were wholly dependent on their masters for provision and protection. The Hebrew word for "servants" here is "עֲבָדִים" (avadim), which implies a sense of duty and loyalty. This imagery suggests a posture of humility and readiness to serve, reflecting the believer's attitude towards God. The servant's eyes are fixed on the master, indicating attentiveness and expectation, a model for how believers should look to God for guidance and sustenance.

look to the hand of their master
The "hand" in biblical terms often symbolizes power, authority, and provision. The Hebrew word "יָד" (yad) is used here, which can denote the physical hand but also represents the actions and decisions of the master. In the cultural context, a servant would look to the master's hand for signals or commands, indicating a readiness to respond. This phrase emphasizes the believer's dependence on God's authority and the expectation of His provision and direction in their lives.

as the eyes of a maidservant
The mention of a "maidservant" (שִׁפְחָה, shifchah) adds another layer to the imagery, highlighting the gender-inclusive nature of servitude and dependence on God. In ancient times, maidservants were often in vulnerable positions, relying entirely on their masters for their well-being. This phrase underscores the theme of trust and reliance, suggesting that all believers, regardless of status or gender, are called to look to God with the same expectancy and trust.

to the hand of her mistress
This phrase parallels the previous one, reinforcing the idea of looking to a higher authority for guidance and provision. The "mistress" (גְּבִרָה, gevirah) represents a figure of authority and care. In the biblical context, the relationship between a maidservant and her mistress would be one of close proximity and daily interaction, symbolizing the intimate relationship believers are invited to have with God. It suggests a personal and direct reliance on God's will and timing.

so our eyes look to the LORD our God
Here, the psalmist makes a direct comparison between the servant-master relationship and the believer's relationship with God. The use of "LORD" (יְהוָה, Yahweh) is significant, as it is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His faithfulness and commitment to His people. This phrase calls believers to fix their eyes on God with the same intensity and expectation as a servant to a master, trusting in His covenant promises and divine provision.

until He shows us mercy
The plea for "mercy" (חֵן, chen) is central to the psalmist's cry. In the Hebrew context, mercy encompasses compassion, grace, and favor. This phrase indicates a posture of waiting and hope, trusting in God's character as merciful and gracious. The use of "until" suggests perseverance in faith, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in their trust in God, confident that He will respond with kindness and compassion in His perfect timing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Servants and Maidservants
These individuals represent those who are in a position of dependence and service, looking to their masters for provision and direction.

2. Masters and Mistresses
Figures of authority and provision, representing God in this analogy, to whom the servants and maidservants look for guidance and sustenance.

3. The LORD our God
The central figure in this verse, representing the ultimate authority and source of mercy for the faithful.

4. The Psalmist
The author of the Psalm, who expresses a communal longing and dependence on God for mercy.

5. Mercy
The desired response from God, indicating His compassion and favor towards His people.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God
Just as servants depend on their masters, we are called to depend on God for our needs and guidance.

Expectation of Mercy
Our posture should be one of hopeful expectation, trusting in God's character to show mercy.

Focus and Patience
Maintaining our focus on God requires patience and perseverance, especially in times of waiting.

Humility in Service
Recognizing our position as servants of God fosters humility and a willingness to serve Him faithfully.

Prayerful Attitude
This verse encourages a prayerful attitude, continually looking to God in all circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the analogy of servants looking to their masters help us understand our relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we actively "look to the LORD" in our daily lives, especially during challenging times?

3. How does the concept of waiting for God's mercy challenge or encourage you in your current situation?

4. What other biblical examples can you think of where individuals demonstrated dependence on God similar to the servants in this Psalm?

5. How can we cultivate a community that collectively looks to God for guidance and mercy, as the Psalmist describes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 25:15
This verse also speaks of eyes being fixed on the LORD, emphasizing trust and expectation for deliverance.

Isaiah 30:18
Highlights the LORD's desire to be gracious and show mercy, encouraging believers to wait on Him.

Hebrews 12:2
Encourages believers to fix their eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, drawing a parallel to the focus and dependence described in Psalm 123:2.