Psalms 120-134 are called "Songs of Ascents," which were sung on the trip up to Jerusalem for annual festivals.

Psalm 120 is a prayer for deliverance from malicious, hate-filled liars. The psalmist is far from Israel and is among godless foreigners (5; Meshek is Turkey, Kedar is Arabia).

He called on the LORD in his distress, and God answered. He prayed, "Save me, LORD, from lying lips and deceitful tongues." He was confident that God's judgment would come upon liars as sharp arrows and burning coals, either literal or figurative. He lived among people who hated peace. He was for peace; but when he spoke, they were for war.

Jewish exiles were to pray for the peace and prosperity of the nations (Jer 29:7). God's people are called to be peacemakers, not trouble-makers or liars (Prov 15:18; Mt 5:9; 2Ti 2:24; Col 4:6).


Application: LORD, may my words promote peace and repentance rather than quarrels or strife. Cleanse my lips of all lies and deceit so that I may speak the truth in love. In Jesus' name. Amen.
One Word: Promote truth and peace in Christ, not lies