Psalm 123

“Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us, for we have had more than enough of contempt” (v3). Like many of us, the psalmist had grown weary of the “scorn” and “contempt” of society, a harsh atmosphere of pride, blame, and self-righteousness. The only cure, the psalmist said, was to look to the Lord in humility, “as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master” (v2). In the light of the holy Creator, we recognize our own failures and need for mercy.

“To you I lift up my eyes, O you who are enthroned in the heavens!” (v1). When we bow before the Lord, He sends mercy, compassion, and lifts us up.