Psalm 120

“I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war” (7). The psalmist expressed the tension – and often pain – of trying to be a godly peacemaker in a society that criticism, conflict, and chaos. Trying to build up among people who are tearing down can become wearying: “Too long have I lived among those who hate peace” (6). However, the psalmist took comfort in knowing that human actions (his own and others) are not pointless: God sees and will judge righteously (3-4).

“I call on the Lord in my distress, and he answers me” (1). The power to follow Jesus’ countercultural values (peace-making, loving enemies, forgiveness) flows from a deeply personal fellowship with Him.