The Safety of the Godly
This morning was particularly discouraging for me as I returned to work after a restful weekend. I was sad, thinking about how much less enjoyable life is as an adult sometimes (especially for someone who was blessed to grow up in the environment I did). Over lunch I read Psalm 121, the psalm that begins, “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” And I just now read Matthew Henry’s commentary on it. It was so good and so applicable to my situation – and I suspect many of yours as well – that I have to share it here.
We must not rely upon men and means, instruments and second causes. Shall I depend upon the strength of the hills? upon princes and great men? No; my confidence is in God only. Or, we must lift up our eyes above the hills; we must look to God who makes all earthly things to us what they are. We must see all our help in God; from him we must expect it, in his own way and time. This psalm teaches us to comfort ourselves in the Lord, when difficulties and dangers are greatest.
It is almighty wisdom that contrives, and almighty power that works the safety of those that put themselves under God’s protection. He is a wakeful, watchful Keeper; he is never weary; he not only does not sleep, but he does not so much as slumber. Under this shade they may sit with delight and assurance. He is always near his people for their protection and refreshment. The right hand is the working hand; let them but turn to their duty, and they shall find God ready to give them success.
He will take care that his people shall not fall. Thou shalt not be hurt, neither by the open assaults, nor by the secret attempts of thine enemies. The Lord shall prevent the evil thou fearest, and sanctify, remove, or lighten the evil thou feelest. He will preserve the soul, that it be not defiled by sin, and disturbed by affliction; he will preserve it from perishing eternally.
He will keep thee in life and death; going out to thy labour in the morning of thy days, and coming home to thy rest when the evening of old age calls thee in. It is a protection for life. The Spirit, who is their Preserver and Comforter, shall abide with them for ever. Let us be found in our work, assured that the blessings promised in this psalm are ours.
Hi Anna,
I’ve been reading your blog for awhile now, and your insight and wisdom is great encouragement for me! This is so applicable to me, too, as I find myself in the same situation: being a brand-new ‘adult’ and now facing the differences of life after school. It’s so comforting to have such a God who keeps watch over us, and does so lovingly 
My prayers are with you!
I need to read this post this morning… thank you
I like the observation by Henry that “the blessings promised in this psalm are ours.” Lovely.
Anna – I understand your discouragement! I have days where even though I am so thankful God gave me such a great job, I get discouraged at getting up every morning to do the same thing. Why cant I be a housewife and sleep in and enjoy a cup of tea with my cat in the morning? But then its funny how God just points things out to you like scripture and reminds you of His will. It is good to remember that He is always there for us. What a comfort!