Psalms Chapter 123 — A Prayer for God's Mercy
The speaker looks to God for mercy, comparing their dependence to that of servants watching their masters while enduring the contempt of the proud.
1I lift up my eyes to you,
2Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master,
3Have mercy on us, LORD, have mercy on us,
4Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scoffing of those who are at ease,
WEB Translation
Notable Verses
Psalms 123:1
“I lift up my eyes to you,”
This opening establishes the vertical focus of the prayer toward God's dwelling place.
Psalms 123:2
“Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master,”
This verse provides a powerful illustration of total dependence and expectant waiting on God's guidance.
Psalms 123:3
“Have mercy on us, LORD, have mercy on us,”
The repetition of this plea highlights the community's desperate need for God's compassion.
Chapter Summary
Psalms 123 is a short Song of Ascents that expresses a deep reliance on God during times of social or spiritual trial. The psalmist begins by lifting their eyes toward the heavens where God dwells, establishing a focus on divine sovereignty. Using a poignant metaphor, the text compares the posture of the community to that of servants or maids who watch their masters' hands for direction, protection, or provision. The central plea of the chapter is for mercy, which is repeated twice to emphasize the urgency of the request. This plea arises from the heavy burden the people are carrying—specifically, the scoffing and contempt from those who are at ease and arrogant. It is a humble appeal for divine intervention and relief from the mockery of those who feel self-sufficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main message is one of humble dependence on God while facing ridicule from others. It describes a community looking toward heaven with the same focused attention a servant gives a master, waiting for divine mercy.
The comparison to servants and maids illustrates a state of complete reliance and obedience. It highlights that the speakers recognize God as their authority and the only source of the relief and mercy they seek.
This phrase refers to the verbal abuse and mockery the psalmist’s community was enduring from people who were arrogant and comfortable. The text suggests that the faithful were being belittled by those who felt superior and self-sufficient.
Study Note
This psalm is one of the fifteen 'Songs of Ascents' traditionally sung by pilgrims as they traveled up to Jerusalem for religious festivals.
Related Chapters
Psalms 121
Both are Songs of Ascents that begin with the theme of lifting one's eyes to God for help.
Psalms 120
Part of the same collection of pilgrim songs dealing with distress and the mockery of others.
Psalms 124
Continues the theme of acknowledging God as the primary helper against those who attack the community.
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