Reflections on Psalm 123

Psalms 123 (Contemporary English Version)


1. (A song for worship.) Our LORD and our God, I turn my eyes to you, on your throne in heaven.
   
2. Servants look to their master, but we will look to you, until you have mercy on us.
   
3. Please have mercy, LORD! We have been insulted more than we can stand,
   
4. and we can't take more abuse from those proud, conceited people.
   

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Expectancy might be considered the theme of this psalm. It is evident, for instance, in the mention of the eyes. They are lifted to the Lord, as the servant's eyes are attentive to their master, those of the writer are on the Lord. The eyes are expectant of the Lord's mercy or favor. We can sense that this is an urgent expectancy rather than casual. The writer and his people are exposed to scorn and contempt by those who are arrogant and proud. Who might this be? We don't know, but some believe the psalm was written during a time when Israel was in captivity. Whatever the circumstances, they have experienced enough scorn and contempt and are looking for God's favor.

Unfortunately, it is when we feel the rejection of those around us that we normally feel most rejected by God as well. To be sure, this is perception and not reality, but perception is often what seems the most real to us at the time. That is why we need to keep close to God in all times so that in the difficult times we are assured of the Lord's presence even when it might seem that He is far away. As the question is sometimes asked, "If God seems far away, who has moved?" And, of course, the answer is, "It wasn't God." This may seem trite, but it is true, none the less. God is ever present and ever with us. If ever it seems otherwise, it is our feelings that are betraying us. James 4:8 tells us to, "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." God is ever present. It is we who come and go. Jesus told His followers to "Remain in Me, and I in you." (John 15:4) By so doing, He said, we can be fruitful.

Reflecting on scripture is a primary way we can remain in the Lord or draw close to Him. It is a practice that will take us through both good and bad times.