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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1"><title>Psalm 121 Study Bible</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/study/chapters/psalms/121.htm"><link rel="stylesheet" href="/chapnew2.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/chaptersummaries/spec.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/print.css" type="text/css" media="Print" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="../cmenus/psalms/121.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bsb/topmenuchap/psalms/121-1.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="http://biblehub.com">Bible</a> > <a href="/study/psalms/">Study</a> > Psalm 121</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/berean/menu.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="../psalms/120.htm" title="Psalm 120">◄</a> Psalm 121 <a href="../psalms/122.htm" title="Psalm 122">►</a></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="Jump"><a href="/study/psalms/" title="Book Study">Book Study</a> • <a href="/study/psalms/1-1.htm" title="Verse Study">Verse Study</a> • <a href="/questions/psalms/121.htm" title="Bible Study Questions">Study Que</a></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheading">Summary</div><b>I Lift Up My Eyes to the Hills</b><p>Psalm 121 serves as a soothing reminder of God's enduring protection and care. No matter the scale of the mountains we face in life, our help comes from the Lord, the Almighty Creator. Whether we are under the blazing heat of life's challenges or in the cold uncertainty of the night, He never slumbers nor sleeps but constantly guards and guides us. This divine reassurance is a beacon of hope, inspiring us to tread life's journey with faith and courage.<p><span class="hdglist">I. Seeking Help from the Lord (verses 1-2)</span><p>The psalmist looks to the hills, symbolizing the vast challenges of life, and affirms that his help comes from God, the Creator of the heavens and the earth.<p><span class="hdglist">II. Divine Protection in All Circumstances (verses 3-6)</span><p>God is portrayed as the ever-watchful guardian who neither slumbers nor sleeps. Whether under the sun or moon, God's protection is constant.<p><span class="hdglist">III. Assurance of God's Everlasting Care (verses 7-8)</span><p>The Psalmist expresses absolute faith in God's promise to protect him from all evil and keep his life. This divine vigilance extends to every aspect of his life, every moment of the day, for all time.<p>Psalm 121, a song of ascents, offers a profound exploration of faith and divine protection. The psalmist looks to the hills, recognizing the grandeur of creation and thus the greatness of the Creator. It's an intimate prayer of trust, acknowledging that help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. Through every trial and tribulation, the psalmist clings to God's promise of perpetual protection, drawing strength and comfort from His unceasing vigilance.<div class="chap"><div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/s/source_of_help.htm">Source of Help</a></b><br>The psalmist begins by lifting his eyes to the hills, asking, From where does my help come? (<a href="/psalms/121.htm">Psalm 121:1</a>). This rhetorical question sets the stage for the profound declaration that follows: My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth (<a href="/psalms/121-2.htm">Psalm 121:2</a>). This emphasizes that our ultimate help and security come from God, the Creator of all things.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/god's_constant_vigilance.htm">God's Constant Vigilance</a></b><br>Verses 3-4 assure us that God is always watching over us. He will not allow your foot to slip; your Protector will not slumber. Behold, the Protector of Israel will neither slumber nor sleep (<a href="/psalms/121-3.htm">Psalm 121:3-4</a>). Unlike human protectors who may falter or grow weary, God is ever-vigilant and attentive to our needs.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/d/divine_protection.htm">Divine Protection</a></b><br>The psalmist continues to describe God's protective nature: The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is the shade on your right hand (<a href="/psalms/121-5.htm">Psalm 121:5</a>). This imagery of shade suggests comfort and relief from the harshness of life's trials, indicating God's protective presence.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/comprehensive_care.htm">Comprehensive Care</a></b><br>Verses 7-8 encapsulate the comprehensive nature of God's care: The LORD will guard you from all evil; He will preserve your soul. The LORD will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore (<a href="/psalms/121-7.htm">Psalm 121:7-8</a>). This promise of protection extends to every aspect of our lives, both present and future.<div class="vheading2">Practical Applications</div><b><a href="/topical/t/trust_in_god's_sovereignty.htm">Trust in God's Sovereignty</a></b><br>In times of uncertainty or fear, remind yourself that your help comes from the Lord, who is sovereign over all creation.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/seek_god's_presence.htm">Seek God's Presence</a></b><br>Make it a habit to lift your eyes to God in prayer and meditation, acknowledging His constant presence and protection in your life.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/rest_in_god's_vigilance.htm">Rest in God's Vigilance</a></b><br>When you feel anxious or overwhelmed, take comfort in knowing that God never sleeps and is always watching over you.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/e/embrace_god's_protection.htm">Embrace God's Protection</a></b><br>Live with confidence, knowing that God is your keeper and protector, guarding you from harm and guiding your steps.<div class="vheading2">People</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_psalmist.htm">The Psalmist</a></b><br>The speaker of the psalm, who is seeking help and assurance. The psalmist begins by lifting their eyes to the hills, questioning where their help comes from, and then affirming that their help comes from the LORD. The psalmist represents any believer seeking divine assistance and protection.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_lord.htm">The LORD (Yahweh)</a></b><br>The central figure in the psalm, described as the helper and protector of the psalmist. The LORD is depicted as the Maker of heaven and earth, who does not slumber or sleep, and who watches over the psalmist. The Hebrew term used here is "Yahweh," emphasizing God's covenantal relationship with His people.<br><br>In this psalm, the focus is primarily on the relationship between the psalmist and the LORD, highlighting God's role as a vigilant and ever-present protector.<div class="vheading2">Places</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_hills.htm">The Hills</a></b><br>Reference: "I lift up my eyes to the hills." (<a href="/psalms/121.htm">Psalm 121:1</a>) <br>Description: The psalmist begins by looking to the hills, which can symbolize a place of refuge or a source of help. In the context of ancient Israel, hills were often seen as places where divine encounters occurred or where help was sought. The Hebrew word used here is "הֶהָרִים" (heharim), which means "the mountains" or "the hills."<br><br>While <a href="/bsb/psalms/121.htm">Psalm 121</a> primarily focuses on God's protection rather than specific geographical locations, the mention of "the hills" serves as a metaphorical place where the psalmist seeks divine assistance.<div class="vheading2">Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/l/lifting_eyes_to_the_hills.htm">Lifting Eyes to the Hills</a></b><br>The psalmist begins by stating, "I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?" (<a href="/psalms/121.htm">Psalm 121:1</a>). This reflects a seeking or looking towards a place of perceived strength or divine presence.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/a/acknowledgment_of_help_from_the_lord.htm">Acknowledgment of Help from the LORD</a></b><br>The psalmist answers their own question with, "My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth" (<a href="/psalms/121-2.htm">Psalm 121:2</a>). The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh," emphasizing the covenantal name of God, the Creator.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/g/god_as_the_keeper.htm">God as the Keeper</a></b><br>The psalmist assures that God "will not allow your foot to slip; your Protector will not slumber" (<a href="/psalms/121-3.htm">Psalm 121:3</a>). The Hebrew word for "Protector" is "shomer," meaning one who watches over or guards.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/g/god's_constant_vigilance.htm">God's Constant Vigilance</a></b><br>It is affirmed that "Behold, the Protector of Israel will neither slumber nor sleep" (<a href="/psalms/121-4.htm">Psalm 121:4</a>). This emphasizes God's constant vigilance and care over His people.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_lord_as_a_shade.htm">The LORD as a Shade</a></b><br>The psalmist declares, "The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is the shade on your right hand" (<a href="/psalms/121-5.htm">Psalm 121:5</a>). The term "shade" (Hebrew: "tsel") implies protection and comfort.<br><br>6. <b><a href="/topical/p/protection_from_harmful_elements.htm">Protection from Harmful Elements</a></b><br>The psalmist assures that "the sun will not strike you by day, nor the moon by night" (<a href="/psalms/121-6.htm">Psalm 121:6</a>). This symbolizes protection from all potential dangers, both seen and unseen.<br><br>7. <b><a href="/topical/p/preservation_from_evil.htm">Preservation from Evil</a></b><br>The psalmist states, "The LORD will guard you from all evil; He will preserve your soul" (<a href="/psalms/121-7.htm">Psalm 121:7</a>). The Hebrew word for "guard" is "shamar," indicating a protective watchfulness.<br><br>8. <b><a href="/topical/g/guarding_of_life's_journey.htm">Guarding of Life's Journey</a></b><br>The psalm concludes with, "The LORD will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore" (<a href="/psalms/121-8.htm">Psalm 121:8</a>). This encompasses the entirety of one's life journey, with God as the eternal guardian.<div class="vheading2">Connections to Additional Scriptures</div><b><a href="/psalms/46.htm">Psalm 46:1</a></b><br>God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. This verse echoes the theme of God's help and protection.<br><br><b><a href="/isaiah/41-10.htm">Isaiah 41:10</a></b><br>Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. This passage reinforces God's promise to be with us and support us.<br><br><b><a href="/matthew/28-20.htm">Matthew 28:20</a></b><br>And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Jesus' promise to be with us always aligns with the assurance of God's constant presence in <a href="/bsb/psalms/121.htm">Psalm 121</a>.<div class="vheading2">Prayer Points</div><b> Thanksgiving for God's Help </b><br>Thank God for being your ever-present help and source of strength in times of need.<br><br><b>Trust in God's Protection</b><br>Pray for a deeper trust in God's protective care over your life and the lives of your loved ones.<br><br><b>Awareness of God's Presence</b><br>Ask God to make you more aware of His presence and guidance in your daily life.<br><br><b>Peace in God's Vigilance</b><br>Pray for peace and assurance, knowing that God is always watching over you and will not let you fall.<div class="vheading2">Bible Study Questions</div><p class="que"><span class="count">1.</span> How does the imagery of the hills resonate with challenges you've encountered in your life?<p class="que"><span class="count">2.</span> In what ways has God shown Himself to be your Helper?<p class="que"><span class="count">3.</span> How does the concept of God's constant watchfulness bring comfort to you in your daily life?<p class="que"><span class="count">4.</span> What specific evils do you think God is protecting you from, as mentioned in verse 7?<p class="que"><span class="count">5.</span> How can this Psalm help in developing a more profound sense of trust in God?<p class="que"><span class="count">6.</span> In what ways does Psalm 121 encourage you in times of trouble or uncertainty?<p class="que"><span class="count">7.</span> How does the Psalmist's faith inspire you in your walk with God?<p class="que"><span class="count">8.</span> How does the assurance of God's protection influence your decisions and actions?<p class="que"><span class="count">9.</span> How can you apply the message of Psalm 121 in your interactions with others?<p class="que"><span class="count">10.</span> Reflect on a situation where you felt God's divine protection. How did it affect your faith?<p class="que"><span class="count">11.</span> How can you share the message of Psalm 121 with someone going through a difficult time?<p class="que"><span class="count">12.</span> What steps can you take to cultivate the same unwavering faith the Psalmist demonstrates in God's protection?<p class="que"><span class="count">13.</span> How can we integrate the message of this Psalm into our daily prayers?<p class="que"><span class="count">14.</span> How does knowing that God is your "shade" (v.5) change your perspective on the challenges you face?<p class="que"><span class="count">15.</span> How does this Psalm influence your understanding of God's omnipresence?<p class="que"><span class="count">16.</span> How can you use this Psalm to help others understand God's protection and care?<p class="que"><span class="count">17.</span> How can you live in a way that demonstrates your belief in God's constant watchfulness?<p class="que"><span class="count">18.</span> How does the promise of God's protection "from this time forth and forevermore" (v.8) influence your long-term plans and hopes?<p class="que"><span class="count">19.</span> How can Psalm 121 help you respond to feelings of fear or anxiety?<p class="que"><span class="count">20.</span> As Christians living in the 21st century, how do we see God's protection play out in a world that often seems chaotic and full of danger?</div><div class="vheading2">Topics</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/d/divine_assistance.htm">Divine Assistance</a></b><br>The psalm begins with the psalmist lifting their eyes to the hills, questioning where their help comes from. The answer is clear: "My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth" (<a href="/psalms/121-2.htm">Psalm 121:2</a>). This emphasizes the belief in God's omnipotence and His role as the Creator, which is rooted in the Hebrew word "עֵזֶר" (ezer), meaning help or assistance.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/g/god_as_protector.htm">God as Protector</a></b><br>The psalmist assures that God will not allow their foot to slip, highlighting God's role as a vigilant protector: "He will not allow your foot to slip; your Protector will not slumber" (<a href="/psalms/121-3.htm">Psalm 121:3</a>). The Hebrew word "שׁוֹמֵר" (shomer) is used here, meaning guardian or keeper, emphasizing God's constant vigilance.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/c/constant_vigilance.htm">Constant Vigilance</a></b><br>The text reassures that God is always awake and attentive: "Behold, the Protector of Israel will neither slumber nor sleep" (<a href="/psalms/121-4.htm">Psalm 121:4</a>). This underscores the belief in God's perpetual watchfulness over His people.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/g/god_as_shade_and_shelter.htm">God as Shade and Shelter</a></b><br>The psalmist describes God as a protective shade: "The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is the shade on your right hand" (<a href="/psalms/121-5.htm">Psalm 121:5</a>). The imagery of shade suggests comfort and protection from harm, rooted in the Hebrew word "צֵל" (tsel), meaning shadow or shade.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/p/protection_from_harm.htm">Protection from Harm</a></b><br>The psalm promises protection from various dangers: "The sun will not strike you by day, nor the moon by night" (<a href="/psalms/121-6.htm">Psalm 121:6</a>). This reflects a comprehensive protection from all forms of harm, both seen and unseen.<br><br>6. <b><a href="/topical/p/preservation_from_evil.htm">Preservation from Evil</a></b><br>The psalmist declares that God will keep them from all evil: "The LORD will guard you from all evil; He will preserve your soul" (<a href="/psalms/121-7.htm">Psalm 121:7</a>). The Hebrew word "נָצַר" (natsar) is used here, meaning to guard or watch over, emphasizing God's protective care over one's spiritual well-being.<br><br>7. <b><a href="/topical/e/eternal_protection.htm">Eternal Protection</a></b><br>The psalm concludes with a promise of God's eternal protection: "The LORD will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore" (<a href="/psalms/121-8.htm">Psalm 121:8</a>). This assures believers of God's unending guardianship throughout their lives and beyond.<div class="vheading2">Themes</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/d/divine_help_and_protection.htm">Divine Help and Protection</a></b><br>Psalm 121 emphasizes God's role as a helper and protector. The psalmist begins by lifting their eyes to the hills, questioning where their help comes from, and affirming that it comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth (<a href="/psalms/121.htm">Psalm 121:1-2</a>). The Hebrew word for "help" is "עֵזֶר" (ezer), which conveys the idea of assistance and support, highlighting God's active involvement in the believer's life.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/g/god_as_the_creator.htm">God as the Creator</a></b><br>The psalm underscores God's sovereignty as the Creator of heaven and earth (<a href="/psalms/121-2.htm">Psalm 121:2</a>). This theme reassures believers of God's ultimate power and authority over all creation, providing a foundation for trust in His ability to protect and sustain.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/c/constant_vigilance.htm">Constant Vigilance</a></b><br>The psalmist assures that God does not slumber or sleep, indicating His constant vigilance over His people (<a href="/psalms/121-3.htm">Psalm 121:3-4</a>). The Hebrew word "שָׁמַר" (shamar) is used for "keep" or "watch," emphasizing God's continuous and attentive care.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/p/personal_guardian.htm">Personal Guardian</a></b><br>God is portrayed as a personal guardian who watches over the individual believer (<a href="/psalms/121-5.htm">Psalm 121:5</a>). The imagery of God as a "shade" at the believer's right hand suggests His protective presence, shielding them from harm.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/p/protection_from_harm.htm">Protection from Harm</a></b><br>The psalm promises protection from various forms of harm, both day and night (<a href="/psalms/121-6.htm">Psalm 121:6</a>). The mention of the sun and moon symbolizes comprehensive protection from all potential dangers, whether seen or unseen.<br><br>6. <b><a href="/topical/p/preservation_of_life.htm">Preservation of Life</a></b><br>God is described as preserving the believer's life from all evil (<a href="/psalms/121-7.htm">Psalm 121:7</a>). The Hebrew root "נָצַל" (natsal) implies rescue and deliverance, reinforcing the theme of God's saving power.<br><br>7. <b><a href="/topical/e/eternal_security.htm">Eternal Security</a></b><br>The psalm concludes with the assurance of God's perpetual care, watching over the believer's coming and going both now and forevermore (<a href="/psalms/121-8.htm">Psalm 121:8</a>). This theme of eternal security highlights the enduring nature of God's protection and guidance throughout the believer's life and beyond.<div id="botbox"><div class="padbot"><div align="center"><br><br>Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions<br><span class="p"><br /><br /></span></div></div></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="../psalms/120.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 120"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 120" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="../psalms/122.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 122"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 122" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhchapnoad.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>