◄ Psalm 120 ►
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In My Distress I Cried to the LORD A song of ascents. 1 In my distress I cried to the LORD, and He answered me. 2Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips and a deceitful tongue. 3What will He do to you, and what will be added to you, O deceitful tongue? 4Sharp arrows will come from the warrior, with burning coals of the broom tree! 5Woe to me that I dwell in Meshech, that I live among the tents of Kedar! 6Too long have I dwelt among those who hate peace. 7I am in favor of peace; but when I speak, they want war. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 120 Summary In My Distress I Cried to the LORD Verses 1–2 – Crying Out and Being Heard The psalmist begins in deep distress, calling on the LORD and receiving an immediate answer. The plea is specific: “Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips and a deceitful tongue” (Psalm 120:2). Trouble is not illness or famine but slander—false words that pierce the heart. Verses 3–4 – The Future of Deceitful Tongues The singer turns to the liars themselves: “What will He do to you… O deceitful tongue?” (v. 3). God’s judgment is pictured as “sharp arrows from the warrior, with burning coals of the broom tree!” (v. 4). The instruments match the offense—deadly and fiery, exposing the destructive power of lies. Verses 5–7 – Living among the Violent Grief intensifies: “Woe to me that I dwell in Meshech, that I reside among the tents of Kedar!” (v. 5). He feels exiled among people far from Jerusalem and far from peace. Surrounded by those “who hate peace,” he keeps saying, “I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war” (vv. 6–7). The worshiper longs to leave hostility behind and ascend toward God’s house. Psalm 120, an individual lament in the Song of Ascents, represents a heartfelt cry from the psalmist beseeching deliverance from false tongues and a longing for peace amidst a world of deceit and conflict. This Psalm is a testament to personal struggles and the spiritual journey towards serenity and divine intervention. Authorship and Setting The psalm is anonymous yet fits the life of David or any faithful Israelite who suffered slander (cf. 1 Samuel 24:9-15). It is labeled “A Song of Ascents,” likely sung by pilgrims traveling uphill to Jerusalem for the three annual feasts (Deuteronomy 16:16). A Song of Ascents • First of fifteen Psalms (120–134) used on the ascent to Zion. • Each song moves the traveler closer to God’s presence; Psalm 120 opens the collection with a cry from far away, setting the journey in motion. • Ascents may reflect literal steps up the Temple Mount, tribal processions, or the spiritual climb every believer makes from trouble to trust. Key Themes 1. God hears distress calls (v. 1; compare Psalm 34:4). 2. Lies wound; truth matters to God (Proverbs 6:17-19). 3. Judgment is sure for the unrepentant (Isaiah 30:27-30). 4. Believers are sojourners among hostile people (1 Peter 2:11). 5. Peace is our posture even when the world prefers war (Romans 12:18). Historical Geography: Meshech and Kedar • Meshech: Descendants of Japheth, located in Asia Minor (Genesis 10:2). Symbolizes distant, uncivilized regions to an Israelite. • Kedar: Nomadic Ishmaelite tribe in Arabia (Genesis 25:13). Known for black goat-hair tents (Song of Songs 1:5). • Together they illustrate cultural and spiritual remoteness—from the fringe of the north to the deserts of the south—underscoring how estranged the psalmist feels. The Problem of Lying Lips • Slander twists reality (Psalm 52:2-4). • God links deceit with violence; lies pave the road to bloodshed (Micah 6:12). • Christ confronted religious liars whose “father is the devil… for he is a liar” (John 8:44). • The final victory banishes all falsehood (Revelation 21:8, 27). Arrows and Broom-Tree Coals • Arrows: Iron-tipped shafts used by skilled warriors; symbolize precision judgment (Psalm 45:5). • Broom tree (Hebrew rotem): Desert shrub; its coals burn hot and long—ideal image for lingering punishment. Archaeologists find ancient charcoal pits from broom wood in Negev digs, confirming its high heat value. • Pairing arrows and coals portrays judgment that is sudden yet enduring. Pilgrimage and Spiritual Journey Step 1 of the Ascents begins amid conflict. Every pilgrim must first recognize the need to leave a world of lies. The traveler later reaches Psalm 122’s “peace within your walls.” The journey mirrors Christian growth: conviction, deliverance, sanctification, worship. Connections within the Psalter • Psalm 34:15-16—God’s eyes on the righteous, face against evildoers. • Psalm 57:4—“My soul is among lions… their teeth are spears and arrows.” • Psalm 140:3—“They sharpen their tongues like a serpent.” These interwoven images reveal a consistent biblical pattern: tongues can be lethal, but the LORD protects. Echoes in the New Testament • Ephesians 4:25—Put away falsehood, speak truth. • James 3:5-6—Tongue a fire, set on fire by hell; matches Psalm 120:4’s burning coals. • Romans 12:17-21—Overcome evil with good; seek peace even with aggressors, echoing verse 7. Practical Application for Today • Seek God first when defamed; He answers. • Guard your own speech—let no deceit leave your mouth (Psalm 34:13). • Remember this world is not home; live as a pilgrim headed for the New Jerusalem (Hebrews 13:14). • Work for peace without surrendering truth. Archaeological Notes • Inscriptions from Assyrian tablets mention Meshech (Mushki), dating 9th–7th centuries BC, verifying the tribal name. • Arabian rock art references Qedarites trading in frankincense, matching biblical Kedar as nomads and merchants (Isaiah 60:7). • Charcoal layers of broom-tree wood discovered near Timna copper mines illustrate the plant’s intense heat, giving physical backing to verse 4’s imagery. Hebrew Word Insights • tsarah (“distress,” v. 1) conveys tightness or a cramped place—ideal for describing emotional squeeze. • sheqer (“lying,” v. 2) literally “falsehood,” used for idols (Habakkuk 2:18); lies usurp God’s reality. • shalom (“peace,” v. 7) denotes wholeness, well-being, not mere absence of war. The psalmist seeks more than a truce; he longs for God-given wholeness. Conclusion of the Movement Psalm 120 plants the pilgrim’s feet in hostile territory yet points eyes toward Zion. The answer to deceit and violence is the faithful God who hears, judges, and leads His people upward into peace. Connections to Additional Scriptures James 3:5-6 So too, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest ablaze. The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body. Romans 12:18 If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Teaching Points Cry for Deliverance The psalmist begins with a plea for deliverance from deceitful tongues. In my distress I called to the LORD, and He answered me (Psalm 120:1). This highlights the importance of turning to God in times of trouble. The Power of Words The psalmist laments the destructive nature of lies and deceit. Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips and a deceitful tongue (Psalm 120:2). Words can wound deeply, and the psalmist seeks God's intervention against falsehood. Divine Justice The psalmist trusts in God's justice, asking what will be given to the deceitful tongue. What will He do to you, and what more besides, O deceitful tongue? (Psalm 120:3). This reflects a belief in God's righteous judgment. Longing for Peace The psalmist expresses a deep desire for peace amidst conflict. I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war (Psalm 120:7). This tension between the desire for peace and the reality of conflict is a common human experience. Practical Applications Seek God in Distress When faced with deceit and hostility, turn to God in prayer, trusting that He hears and answers. Guard Your Words Be mindful of the power of your words, striving to speak truth and avoid deceit. Trust in God's Justice Rest in the assurance that God sees all and will bring justice in His perfect timing. Pursue Peace Actively seek peace in your relationships, even when others may not reciprocate. People 1. The Psalmist The primary speaker in Psalm 120, who is crying out to the Lord in distress. The psalmist seeks deliverance from lying lips and deceitful tongues. The Hebrew root for "psalmist" is not explicitly mentioned, but the speaker is traditionally understood to be David or another individual expressing personal lament. 2. The LORD Referred to as the one whom the psalmist calls upon for help. The Hebrew name used is "Yahweh" (יהוה), which is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness. 3. Deceitful Tongues While not a person per se, deceitful tongues represent those who speak lies and falsehoods against the psalmist. The Hebrew word for "tongue" is "lashon" (לָשׁוֹן), which can metaphorically refer to speech or language. 4. Meshech and Kedar These are not individuals but rather regions or peoples. The psalmist mentions dwelling among them as a metaphor for living among hostile or deceitful people. Meshech is associated with distant lands, and Kedar with nomadic tribes, both symbolizing foreign and potentially adversarial environments. In summary, Psalm 120 primarily involves the psalmist, the LORD, deceitful tongues, and metaphorical references to Meshech and Kedar. The focus is on the psalmist's plea for divine intervention against deceit and hostility. Places 1. Meshech In Psalm 120:5, the psalmist laments, "Woe to me that I dwell in Meshech." Meshech is often associated with a distant and foreign land, possibly located in the region of modern-day Turkey. In the Hebrew context, it represents a place far from the psalmist's homeland, symbolizing alienation and distress. 2. Kedar The verse continues, "that I dwell among the tents of Kedar." Kedar refers to a nomadic tribe known for their tents, located in the Arabian Desert. In the Hebrew context, Kedar symbolizes a place of hostility and conflict, contrasting with the peace the psalmist seeks. Events 1. Cry for Deliverance The psalmist begins by expressing a cry to the Lord for deliverance from distress. The Hebrew root word for "distress" (צָרָה, tsarah) conveys a sense of being in a tight or narrow place, indicating the psalmist's urgent need for help. ^"In my distress I cried to the LORD, and He answered me."^ (Psalm 120:1) 2. Plea for Rescue from Deceit The psalmist pleads for rescue from lying lips and deceitful tongues. The Hebrew word for "lying" (שֶׁקֶר, sheker) emphasizes falsehood and deception, highlighting the psalmist's desire for truth and integrity. ^"Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips and a deceitful tongue."^ (Psalm 120:2) 3. Question of Retribution The psalmist questions what will be given or done to the deceitful tongue, suggesting a desire for divine justice. This reflects a belief in God's righteous judgment against falsehood. ^"What will He do to you, and what will be added to you, O deceitful tongue?"^ (Psalm 120:3) 4. Imagery of Divine Judgment The psalmist uses vivid imagery to describe the consequences for deceit, mentioning sharp arrows and burning coals. The Hebrew word for "sharp" (שָׁנוּן, shanun) and "coals" (רֶתֶם, retem) convey the severity and intensity of divine retribution. ^"Sharp arrows of the warrior, with burning coals of the broom tree!"^ (Psalm 120:4) 5. Expression of Woe The psalmist expresses woe over dwelling among hostile people, specifically mentioning Meshech and Kedar. These names symbolize distant and hostile regions, reflecting the psalmist's sense of alienation and longing for peace. ^"Woe to me that I dwell in Meshech, that I live among the tents of Kedar!"^ (Psalm 120:5) 6. Desire for Peace The psalmist laments living among those who hate peace, contrasting his own desire for peace with the hostility of others. The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses well-being, harmony, and completeness. ^"Too long have I dwelt among those who hate peace."^ (Psalm 120:6) 7. Declaration of Peaceful Intentions The psalmist declares his peaceful intentions, despite the warlike nature of those around him. This highlights the psalmist's commitment to peace in the face of adversity. ^"I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war."^ (Psalm 120:7) Lessons from Psalm 120 1. Cry Out to the Lord in Distress Psalm 120 begins with a powerful reminder that in times of trouble, our first response should be to call upon the Lord. "In my distress I cried to the LORD, and He answered me" (Psalm 120:1). This verse encourages us to turn to God with our burdens, trusting that He hears and responds. Just as a child instinctively runs to a parent for comfort, we too should run to our Heavenly Father, knowing that He is always ready to listen and provide peace. 2. The Power of Truth The psalmist laments the deceitful tongues that surround him, highlighting the importance of truth. "Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips and a deceitful tongue" (Psalm 120:2). In a world where falsehoods can easily spread, we are reminded to cling to the truth found in Scripture. By grounding ourselves in God's Word, we can discern truth from lies and live with integrity. 3. God’s Justice Will Prevail The psalmist expresses confidence that God will deal with deceit and injustice. "What will He do to you, and what more besides, O deceitful tongue?" (Psalm 120:3). This serves as a reminder that while we may face unfairness, God’s justice will ultimately prevail. We can rest assured that He sees all and will act in His perfect timing. 4. The Consequences of Deceit The psalmist warns of the consequences that come with deceitful behavior. "Sharp arrows of the warrior, with burning coals of the broom tree!" (Psalm 120:4). This vivid imagery reminds us that deceit not only harms others but also brings about its own destruction. Living truthfully aligns us with God’s will and spares us from the painful repercussions of dishonesty. 5. Longing for Peace The psalmist expresses a deep yearning for peace amidst conflict. "Woe to me that I dwell in Meshech, that I live among the tents of Kedar!" (Psalm 120:5). This reflects our own longing for peace in a world filled with strife. As followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers, bringing His love and reconciliation to those around us. 6. The Challenge of Living Among the Ungodly Living in a world that often opposes God’s ways can be challenging. "Too long have I dwelt among those who hate peace" (Psalm 120:6). This verse acknowledges the difficulty of maintaining our faith amidst opposition. Yet, it also encourages us to stand firm, knowing that God equips us to be lights in the darkness. 7. The Pursuit of Peace Despite the hostility around him, the psalmist remains committed to peace. "I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war" (Psalm 120:7). This determination to pursue peace, even when others resist, is a powerful testament to the transformative power of God’s love. As believers, we are called to be ambassadors of peace, reflecting Christ’s heart to a world in need. 8. The Importance of Community Psalm 120 reminds us of the value of surrounding ourselves with fellow believers who share our commitment to truth and peace. While the psalmist laments his isolation, we are encouraged to seek out and build a community that supports and strengthens our faith. Together, we can encourage one another and stand firm in our convictions. 9. Trust in God’s Deliverance Throughout the psalm, there is an underlying trust in God’s ability to deliver. This trust is a cornerstone of our faith, reminding us that no matter the circumstances, God is our refuge and strength. By placing our trust in Him, we can face any challenge with confidence, knowing that He is in control. 10. The Eternal Perspective Finally, Psalm 120 invites us to adopt an eternal perspective. While the psalmist’s immediate circumstances are difficult, his hope is ultimately in the Lord. This encourages us to look beyond our present trials and focus on the eternal promises of God. By keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, we can navigate life’s challenges with hope and assurance. Topics 1. Cry for Deliverance The psalmist begins with a plea for deliverance from distress. The Hebrew word for "distress" (צָרָה, tsarah) conveys a sense of being in a tight or narrow place, indicating severe trouble or affliction. ^"In my distress I cried to the LORD, and He answered me."^ (Psalm 120:1) 2. Deceitful Tongues The psalmist laments the presence of deceitful tongues and lying lips. The Hebrew word for "lying" (שֶׁקֶר, sheker) implies falsehood and deception, highlighting the psalmist's struggle against dishonesty. ^"Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips and a deceitful tongue."^ (Psalm 120:2) 3. Divine Retribution The psalmist calls for divine retribution against deceitful tongues, expressing confidence that God will bring justice. The imagery of "sharp arrows" and "burning coals" suggests severe and fitting punishment. ^"What will He do to you, and what will be added to you, O deceitful tongue? A warrior’s sharp arrows, with burning coals of the broom tree!"^ (Psalm 120:3-4) 4. Longing for Peace The psalmist expresses a deep longing for peace amidst conflict. The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses wholeness, harmony, and well-being, contrasting with the psalmist's current experience. ^"Too long have I dwelt among those who hate peace. I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war."^ (Psalm 120:6-7) 5. Alienation and Exile The psalmist feels alienated and exiled, living among hostile people. The mention of "Meshech" and "Kedar" symbolizes distant and foreign lands, emphasizing the psalmist's sense of being a stranger in a hostile environment. ^"Woe to me that I dwell in Meshech, that I live among the tents of Kedar!"^ (Psalm 120:5) Themes 1. Cry for Deliverance The psalmist begins with a plea for deliverance from distress, highlighting a theme of seeking God's intervention in times of trouble. The Hebrew root word for "distress" (צָרָה, tsarah) conveys a sense of being in a tight or narrow place, emphasizing the urgency and desperation of the plea. Psalm 120:1 states, "In my distress I cried to the LORD, and He answered me." 2. Deception and Lies The theme of deceit is prominent, as the psalmist laments being surrounded by lying lips and deceitful tongues. This reflects a deep concern for truth and integrity. The Hebrew word for "deceitful" (שֶׁקֶר, sheker) underscores the falsehood and betrayal experienced by the psalmist. Psalm 120:2 says, "Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips and a deceitful tongue." 3. Divine Justice The psalmist expresses a desire for divine retribution against those who practice deceit. This theme underscores a belief in God's justice and the eventual downfall of the wicked. The imagery of "sharp arrows" and "burning coals" in Psalm 120:4 symbolizes the severe consequences awaiting the deceitful: "Sharp arrows of the warrior, with burning coals of the broom tree!" 4. Longing for Peace A yearning for peace is evident as the psalmist contrasts their own desire for peace with the hostility of others. The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses not just the absence of conflict but also completeness and well-being. Psalm 120:6-7 captures this sentiment: "Too long have I dwelt among those who hate peace. I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war." 5. Alienation and Exile The psalmist feels a sense of alienation, living among hostile people, which reflects the broader theme of being in exile or away from one's true home. The mention of "Meshech" and "Kedar" in Psalm 120:5 symbolizes distant and foreign lands, emphasizing the psalmist's isolation: "Woe to me that I dwell in Meshech, that I live among the tents of Kedar!" Prayer Points Pray for deliverance from any deceit or falsehood you may be facing. Ask God for wisdom and self-control in your speech, that you may speak truth and life. Seek God's peace in your heart and relationships, even amidst conflict. Pray for those who oppose you, that they may come to know God's truth and peace. Answering Tough Questions 1. Psalm 120:1 – How can we verify historically or scientifically that God literally “answered” the psalmist’s call? 2. Psalm 120:2–3 – Is there archaeological or textual evidence that consistently attributes judgment on “deceitful tongues” in this manner? 3. Psalm 120:4 – Does referring to “warrior’s sharp arrows” and “burning coals” raise contradictions with a supposedly loving and merciful God? 4. Psalm 120:5 – Why does the psalmist mention living in Meshek and among Kedar if there is limited historical or geographical data to support this claim? 5. Psalm 120:7 – Does the psalmist’s emphasis on peace conflict with other Scripture passages depicting aggressive warfare? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Psalm 120 resonate with your personal experiences of deceit and conflict? 2. In what ways does the psalmist's plea for deliverance reflect your own prayers in times of distress? 3. How might the psalmist's yearning for peace inspire you to seek peace in your life? 4. If you were in the psalmist's place, surrounded by deceit and conflict, how would you react? 5. How do you interpret the punishment mentioned for the deceitful in verses 3-4? How does this shape your understanding of divine justice? 6. What can be learned from the psalmist's feeling of exile in Meshech and living among the tents of Kedar? 7. How does the psalmist's dependency on God in times of trouble inspire your faith? 8. In your life, how do you navigate situations where you feel surrounded by deceitful people or strife? 9. How do you relate to the psalmist's profound longing for peace amidst war? 10. What contemporary situations does this Psalm bring to mind? Are there areas in your life where you feel you're 'living in Meshech' or 'dwelling in the tents of Kedar'? 11. How might you apply the lessons from Psalm 120 in your daily life? 12. How does this Psalm help you understand the power of prayer in times of distress? 13. What does this Psalm teach about patience and hope in God's deliverance? 14. How can Psalm 120 inspire us to promote peace in our communities? 15. In times of personal distress, how can one maintain a sense of hope and peace as illustrated in this Psalm? 16. How can you cope with the feeling of living in a world that often relishes in war and deceit, as the psalmist describes? 17. How does Psalm 120 guide us to respond to personal deceit and conflict in a faith-centered way? 18. In light of Psalm 120, how should one deal with a world where truth is often distorted? 19. How does Psalm 120 relate to the broader theme of the Songs of Ascents? 20. Based on the message of this Psalm, how can you pray for those in your life who are dealing with deceit or conflict? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions