Psalm

Lesson 11 of 12 March 24, 2024

The class began with brief announcements about upcoming church events, including a men’s rally, a giveaway, and a young adult camp‑out. The teacher then invited the group to continue their study of Psalm 121, reading the passage aloud and noting its role as a song of ascent for pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem. Participants discussed the opening verses, recognizing the psalmist’s question of where help will come from and the answer that it comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. The discussion moved to the recurring Hebrew word *shamar* (to keep, protect) and how the psalmist repeatedly affirms God’s protection—both in major life crises and in everyday frustrations. The group reflected on verses 4, 7, and 8, emphasizing that God guards Israel, preserves our souls, and watches over our coming and going “now and forever.” A quote from Eugene Peterson was read to illustrate the tendency to seek divine help only for dramatic moments, while the Psalm reminds believers that God is also present in the mundane. The class concluded with prayers for the upcoming events and a call to verbalize even the smallest daily struggles to God, trusting Him to keep us at all times.

Psalm 121:1-2

I lift my eyes toward the mountains. Where will my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Psalm 121:4

He who keeps you will not slumber; he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

Psalm 121:8

The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time on and forevermore.