1. This morning we studied Psalm 124 -- David concluded in vs.8 by stating that God helps His people. 2. This evening we are turning our attention to Psalm 121. 3. The main theme is: "The Lord helps and keeps His people." Discussion: I. WE LEARN FROM VS.1-2 THAT THE LORD HELPS HIS PEOPLE
A. (vs.1) As God's people traveled toward Jerusalem and they saw the hills that surrounded the city, they could say, "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help." B. "The hills" are mentioned in vs.1, but God's people recognized Him as their helper (vs.2). 1. When they saw the hills they knew they were approaching Jerusalem. 2. The great temple where the Jews worshipped was located in Jerusalem. 3. As the hills came into view, they were reminded of their relationship with God, and they were reminded that He was their helper. II. WE LEARN FROM VS.3-8 HOW THE LORD HELPS AND KEEPS HIS FOLLOWERS
A. Keep in mind that some of the Jews had to travel great distances to Jerusalem. 1. They would be especially grateful for the help that God gave them as they traveled. 2. God helped and kept them in 2 ways: He protected them, and He preserved them. B. (vs.3-6) God helps and keeps His followers by protecting them. 1. (vs.3a) God protected the Jews by not allowing their feet to be moved. a. Sure footing is essential to those who climb hills. b. Palestine has a rough and rocky terrain, so sure footing was important. 2. (vs.3b-4) He protected the Jews continuously. a. God does not slumber or sleep. b. This indicates that He is always attentive to the needs of His children. 3. (vs.5-6) His protection is given during the day as well as during the night. a. There are hazards that we face during the day, and there are others we face at night. b. The Lord is always on call. C. (vs.7-8) God helps and keeps His followers by preserving them. 1. (vs.7) God preserves His followers from all evil. 2. This principle is repeated many times (Psalm 31:23; 145:20). 3. (vs.8) The Lord's ability to preserve is dependable (Psalm 125:1-2). III. ALTHOUGH THIS PSALM WAS WRITTEN PRIMARILY FOR THE JEWS, THESE PRINCIPLES APPLY TO CHRISTIANS
A. The Lord stills helps and keeps His followers (Hebrews 4:16). B. He helps and keeps His followers by protecting and preserving us. 1. He will protect us. a. He will protect us so we can avoid stumbling (Jude 24). b. He will protect us continuously (Hebrews 13:5b-6). 2. God will also preserve us. a. This does not mean that we will never have to face things that are unpleasant, but He will not allow us to be tried above what we are able to bear (1 Corinthians 10:13). b. The Lord's ability to preserve is dependable (1 Thessalonians 5:23). Conclusion:
1. This morning we showed from Psalm 124 that "God helps His people." 2. We learn from Psalm 121 how the Lord helps and keeps His people. a. God protects His people. b. God preserves His people.
