Useful Bible Studies > Songs of Ascent Commentary

Last part: Some lessons from Psalm 120

 

Psalm 120

Psalm 120 as poetry

·        Here is a poem that explains each verse and each word picture in Psalm 120. First, compare it with the translation in your Bible. This will help you to understand the parts of Psalm 120 that may seem difficult. Then use the poem again when you pray. Perhaps you have had experiences like those that the author of Psalm 120 had. Then you will be able to make the poem into your own prayer to God.

Psalm 120

A song for the journey to Jerusalem.

 

[1] I cry out to God when I have troubles.

And he acts to help me.

[2] ‘God, please rescue me from people who lie.

They are trying to confuse me.’

 

[3] God will act to rescue me from their lies.

He will stop their untrue words.

[4] So their punishment will happen as suddenly as an arrow flies.

And it will last longer than coals that burn slowly.

 

[5] I am sorry that I live in a foreign country.

I may be living in the country called Meshech.

I may have chosen a tent as my home, in the country called Kedar.

[6] I have lived in such countries for too many years.

These people hate peace.

[7] I would do almost anything to bring about peace.

But whatever I say, these people still want war.

Next part: Psalm 120: Something to do

See the word list for explanation of words with a *

 

Please use the links at the top of the page to find our other articles in this series. You can download all our articles if you go to the download page for our free 450 page course book.

 

© 2015, Keith Simons.