Psalm 123:1-4 To you lift I up my eyes, O you that dwell in the heavens. Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, etc. "This psalm," says J. J. S. Perowne, "is either the sigh of the exile towards the close of the Captivity, looking in faith and patience for the deliverance which he hoped was now at hand; or the sigh of those who, having returned, were still exposed to the scorn and contempt of the Samaritans and others who harassed and insulted the Jews." God was their Refuge from such men, as he is the ultimate Refuge from all the ills and evils of this life. I. THE PSALMIST FINDS HOPE IN GOD'S SUPREMACY. Enthroned in the heavens - the Judge of all controversies among his creatures, who will vindicate the righteous cause. Greatest power of service to humanity under his control. II. THE GRACIOUS MERCY OF GOD IS HIS ALL-SUFFICIENT REFUGE FROM THE CONTEMPT AND PERSECUTION OF MAN. III. SENSE OF DEPENDENCE UPON GOD NECESSARY TO REALIZE HIS HELP. As the lower must always depend on the higher. IV. THE VISION AND CONTEMPLATION OF GOD NECESSARY TO THE SENSE OF DEPENDENCE. Looking away from man up to God, as the servant studies the face of his master in order to read his duty. - S. Parallel Verses KJV: {A Song of degrees.} Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens.WEB: To you I do lift up my eyes, you who sit in the heavens. |
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