God Builds and Gives Rest
Psalms 120-127 are part of a group
of psalms called Songs of Ascent.
These psalms were songs which
pilgrims sang as they made their
way up the paths to Jerusalem
to celebrate the Jewish festivals.
And Ps 120-127 deal with topics
dear to the heart of travellers
far from home: peace (120, 122);
provision (123, 124, 126); and
Protection (121, 125, 127). As you
read these “hymns of the highway”
imagine yourself on a journey of life.
Lord, You Build and Give Rest:
Unless the Lord Builds a house,
the work of the builders is useless.
Unless the Lord protects a city,
guarding it with sentries
will do no good (Psalm 127:1).
It is useless for you to work so hard
from early morning until late
at night, anxiously working for
food to eat; for God Gives Rest
to His loved ones (Psalm 127:2).
Lord, thanks for the reminder that
while progress is good, it must be
seen in the light of Your provision.
Whilst human striving can provide
benefits, it can also be destructive.
For only by conforming our efforts
to God’s will & plan will our efforts
construct anything worthwhile.
And we trust You God to prevent
our work from being wasted. Amen.
Lord, I acknowledge that without
dependence and trust in You, all
my work is in vain & effort wasted.
I need and want You Lord to be
the foundation of my life, my family
and my ministry so that the work
of my hands will bear fruit that
honours You. And I will be able to
enjoy the rest that You give. Amen.
Lord, thanks for the promise that
You Give Rest to Your loved ones.
For You God didn’t wire us to work
like machines 24/7 all the time.
In Your goodness, You God has
promised to Give us Rest so that
we can also have balance in life.
And we can Trust You God with
the results for You are Almighty
and You are a good God. Amen.