Fear No Fear

(All scripture from Lexham English Bible, Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software)

Psalm 129-134 were psalms of ascents. They were sung by people as they approached Jerusalem and walked up to the Temple. They were meant not only as praise, but as an opportunity for the worshipper to get their eyes pointed up toward God. To align themselves with His point of view. To prepare their hearts for meeting Him.

Psalm 129 is a song of victory over the enemies of God’s people BUT through praising the Lord for His help, NOT through celebrating their defeat.

Psalm 130 is a prayer or an acknowledgement of the hope the Israelites had of a future redeemer (Jesus) who would come and redeem them from their sin and iniquity.

Psalm 131 is a declaration of trust in the Lord. Of the choice to calm oneself, refuse anxiety, and wait upon Him.

Psalm 132 is a celebration of Zion, Jerusalem, the Temple; the place the Lord chose to dwell. The glory He brings to that place is remembered and honoured.

Psalm 133 is reciting the blessing that exists when fellow believers in the Lord live together, worship together, and become a group united in Him.

Psalm 134 is a declaration that they will praise the Lord during the night in His Temple, not just during the day. That they will bring the sacrifice of praise to Him.

Psalm 135 is an admonition for those standing in the Temple, the House of the Lord, to praise the Lord because of His might and glory. For the wonders that He has performed for the people. And for the redemption of the people from their sins and iniquity that He WILL bring (and HAS brought in Jesus).

Psalm 136 is a song of thanksgiving for the mercy of the Lord. In every corner of creation. In every situation. Through the signs, wonders, and miracles He has performed. For His guidance. For His everything. Every person, every nation, and especially Israel, have ample reasons to give thanks for the mercy of the Lord.

Summary

Key Players: God, Various – including David

Key Verse(s): Psalm 129:1-4; 130:7-8; 131:3; 132:13-16; 133:1; 134:1-3; 135:19-21; 136:1-3