Psalm 121: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 121 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist lifts his eyes to the hills, asking where his help comes from. He affirms that his help comes from Yahweh, the Creator of heaven and earth (vv. 1-2). Yahweh will not allow anyone's foot to be moved. He does not slumber, ensuring constant vigilance over His people (vv. 3-4). The psalm states that Yahweh is the keeper of His people and provides shade at their right hand. He protects them from the harm of the sun by day and the moon by night (vv. 5-6). The psalmist assures that Yahweh will keep them safe from all evil and guard their very soul (vv. 7). Yahweh is present in their coming and going, providing protection from this time forward and forever (vv. 8).

Key verse

“I will lift up my eyes to the hills. Where does my help come from? My help comes from Yahweh, who made heaven and earth.”
Psalms 121:1-2 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 121:1–2 Seeking Help from God
Psalm 121:3–4 God's Vigilance as Guardian
Psalm 121:5–6 God as Keeper and Shade
Psalm 121:7–8 Assured Protection and Presence

Discussion questions

In v1, what does the Psalmist lift his eyes to in search of help?
What does the phrase 'He who keeps you will not slumber' in v3 suggest about God's vigilance?
In v5, what does calling Yahweh 'your shade on your right hand' imply about His protection?
In v7, what does it mean that 'Yahweh will keep you from all evil' in the context of life’s challenges?
When have you felt the need for 'help' as described in v1?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 121: Psalm 91, Proverbs 3, 2 Timothy 4.

Before next time: read Psalm 122.