Psalm 124 Meaning Explained
A communal testimony of narrow escape. 'If it had not been the LORD who was on our side...' The enemy’s anger would have swallowed, the flood swept over, the torrent gone over us. 'Blessed be the LORD, who has not given us as prey to their teeth.' Our help is in the name of the LORD, maker of heaven and earth. It is the ‘what-if’ turned into a grateful ‘but-God’ confession.
A clear explanation of Psalm 124, its meaning, context, and message for believers today
Psalms Chapter 124 | KJV
1. A Song of degrees of David. If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, now may Israel say;
2. If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, when men rose up against us:
3. Then they had swallowed us up quick, when their wrath was kindled against us:
4. Then the waters had overwhelmed us, the stream had gone over our soul:
5. Then the proud waters had gone over our soul.
6. Blessed be the LORD, who hath not given us as a prey to their teeth.
7. Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are escaped.
8. Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.
Historical Context
Psalm 124, a Song of Ascents, recounts God’s protection and help for Israel against adversaries.
Phrase by Phrase
- If it had not been the LORD who was on our side: Recognition that success depends on God.
- When men rose up against us, they would have swallowed us up: Acknowledgment of danger and enemy threats.
- Blessed be the LORD, who hath not given us as a prey to their teeth: Thanksgiving for God’s deliverance.
Application for Today
Believers can acknowledge God’s help in trials, trust His deliverance, and offer thanksgiving.
FAQs
Q: What is the main theme of Psalm 124?
A: God’s help and deliverance from enemies.
Q: Why is God’s help necessary?
A: Without Him, we could be overcome by adversaries.
Q: What should be our response?
A: Praise and thank God for deliverance.
Q: How can this psalm apply today?
A: Trust God’s help in trials and give Him glory for deliverance.
Conclusion
Psalm 124 teaches reliance on God’s protection and thanksgiving for deliverance from enemies.
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