Look Unto the Hills

Author: Ayodeji Oludapo

Date: September 4, 2024

Scripture: "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth." - Psalm 121:1-2 (KJV)

Devotional Thoughts

In Psalm 121, King David speaks of a deep, personal trust in the Lord. Although David was a man of great wealth and power, he knew that his true help did not come from earthly sources. He lifted his eyes beyond the hills, symbolizing earthly strength, and acknowledged that his help came from the Creator of the heavens and the earth. This psalm reflects David’s reliance on the Lord, showing that even a king with vast resources recognized the ultimate source of his help.

In Psalm 46:1, David further reveals the readiness of God to assist His people. God is not distant or indifferent to our struggles. He is "a very present help in trouble," always near and ready to save. Even when David had the strength of armies and the security of riches, he knew that only God could provide the help he truly needed. This reliance on God is an essential lesson for all who trust in Him.

Consider the example of King Hezekiah, who faced the mighty army of Assyria led by King Sennacherib. Instead of relying solely on his own strength, Hezekiah turned to God in prayer. He knew that his help had to come from the Lord. Hezekiah spread the threatening letter from Sennacherib before the Lord and prayed for deliverance (2 Kings 19:14-19). In response, God miraculously intervened, saving Jerusalem from destruction. Hezekiah’s faith echoes the same trust David had in God—looking beyond the hills to the One who reigns over all.

Practical Reflection

• In our lives today, it can be tempting to depend on what we can see—our jobs, our resources, or even our own abilities. But just like the hills that David referred to, these things are temporary and cannot provide the ultimate security we need. The true source of help is God Himself.

• What challenges are you facing today? Are you looking to the “hills” of your strength or circumstances, or are you looking to the Lord? When we place our trust in earthly things, we find ourselves weary and burdened. But when we lift our eyes to God, we experience His peace, knowing that He is our ever-present help.

Closing Thoughts

The Lord, who created the heavens and the earth, is the same God who cares for every detail of your life. No situation is too big or too small for Him. He is always ready to help, just as He did for David, Hezekiah, and countless others throughout history. When we fix our gaze on Him, we find the strength to face every challenge.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I lift my eyes unto You, for I know that my help comes from You, the Maker of heaven and earth. In times of trouble, remind me that You are my refuge and my strength, a very present help. Just as You were there for David and Hezekiah, be my deliverer in every challenge I face. Help me to trust in You completely and not in my strength. Thank You for Your faithfulness and for being ever-present in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.