Old Testament
Psalms 120
Overview
Psalm 120 is a brief lament opening the Songs of Ascents, the cry of a worshiper distressed by lying lips and deceitful tongues. He recalls that he called to the LORD in trouble and was answered, then laments living among hostile, war-loving people in a far-off place while he himself longs for peace. It voices the ache of the faithful surrounded by deceit and conflict, yet turning to God for help.
1A Song of Ascents. In my distress, I cried to Yahweh. He answered me.
2Deliver my soul, Yahweh, from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue.
3What will be given to you, and what will be done more to you, you deceitful tongue?
4Sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals of juniper.
5Woe is me, that I live in Meshech, that I dwell among the tents of Kedar!
6My soul has had her dwelling too long with him who hates peace.
7I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war.