As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy. – Psalm 123:2
This is another Psalm of Ascent, sung by pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem at feast time, in preparation to meet with God and His people. | WATCH ON YOUTUBE
This short psalm of just four verses is a great example to remind us that the power of prayer does not consist of many words (Matthew 6:7), but in the fervency of spirit. “Every prayer is long enough if it is fervent and proceeds from a heart that understandeth the necessity of the saints.” (Luther, cited in Spurgeon).
The psalmist begins by declaring his intent – to look up, to lift his eyes up to the Lord. The psalmist is essentially saying, he is making a choice. He is not going to focus on his own circumstances or himself, but his eyes are lifted high, to look on the Lord of the heavens.
And then he moves on to explain how he is looking. The picture here is of a butler or waiter standing beside the master seated at dinner. The servant looks for the slightest indication of need or want, to instantly meet the need. It is with that intensity that the psalmist is looking to the hand of God. So also, a disciple’s dependence and submission to God should be no less than the most obedient servant of an earthly master.
And finally, the psalmist says he will look until God shows mercy. The psalmist is not demanding an immediate answer, but is willing to wait, for God’s perfect time. And yet, he will not give up either but will wait, persevere until the Lord shows mercy.
How do you pray?
Lord that I may wait for you in humble dependence and perseverance, I pray.
Extended Reading — Psalm 121, 123-125, 128-130
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