Song of Ascents 124

Psalm 124 (a song of Ascents) is an interesting Psalm. 

This Song of Ascents, also called a Song of the Steps was written by David and it is believed they refer to the songs sung by the people of Israel when they climbed to Jerusalem to go to the 3 pilgrim festivals. (see Deut 16:16).

What is interesting about Psalm 124 is the structure.  It has a clear introduction:

If it had not been the Lord who was on our side – let Israel now say….

Then it continues with a list of events they were saved from.

I imagine as they climbed the steps they sang about all the things God had done for them that saved them from sure destruction. Can’t you see David leading them and shouting, “let Israel now say!” followed by their recant of the times God had saved them.  What an awesome event!  They were remembering and singing/shouting it so their children would remember. 

The Psalm ends with the line:

Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.

As a prayer, spend some time with:

If it had not been the Lord who was on my side…

I would have…

I would have…

I would have…

My help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.

Spend time with the prayer and remember – remember what God has done for you!