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Psalms 121:4
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Summary
Commentary
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
The Lord is thy keeper,.... This explains more fully who it is that keeps Israel and particular believers, and confirms the same; not a creature, but the Lord; the Word of the Lord, as the Targum, in Psa 121:7, Christ, the Word and Wisdom of God; who is the keeper of his people by the designation of his Father, who has put them into his hands to be kept by him; and by their full will and consent, who commit the keeping of their souls to him; for which he is abundantly qualified, being able as the mighty God; faithful to him that has appointed him; tender and compassionate to those under his care, whom he keeps as the apple of his eye; and diligent and constant, for he keeps them night and day, lest any hurt them: he keeps them as they are his flock, made his care and charge; as they are the vineyard of the Lord of hosts; as they are a city, which, unless the Lord keeps, the watchmen watch in vain; as they are his body and members of it, and as they are his jewels and peculiar treasure: these he keeps in the love of God; in his own hands; in the covenant of grace; in an estate of grace; and in his own ways, safe to his kingdom and glory; the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand; he is at the right hand of his people, to hold their right hand; to teach them to go, lead them into communion with himself, and hold them up safe; and to strengthen their right hand, assist them in working, without whom they can do nothing; and to counsel and direct them, and to protect and defend them against all their enemies. So a shadow signifies defence; see Num 14:9, Ecc 7:12; and such great personages are to others; in which sense Virgil (n) uses the word "shadow"; and much more true is this of God himself. And he is like the shadow of a great rock in a weary land; or of a spreading tree, which is a protection from heat, and very reviving and refreshing; see Isa 32:2. The allusion may be to the pillar of cloud by day, which guided and guarded the Israelites in the wilderness, and was a shadow from the heat, Isa 4:5; as Christ is from the heat of a fiery law, the flaming sword of justice, the wrath of God, and the fiery darts of Satan. (n) "Et magnum reginae nomen obumbrat", Aeneid. l. xi.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
121:4-6 The Creator (121:2) is the guardian of Israel. • God stands beside Israel, supporting and caring for the godly (see 16:7-8). • Both the sun and the moon were regarded as deities in the ancient Near East, but the Creator limits their power. They, too, praise the Lord (148:3). 121:4 God watches over his own, even and especially when they face many troubles (12:5, 7; 69:29; 91:14; 146:9).
Psalms 121:4
I Lift Up My Eyes to the Hills
3He will not allow your foot to slip; your Protector will not slumber. 4Behold, the Protector of Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(How to Get Out of a Religious Rut): Awakened Out of Sleep
By A.W. Tozer6.4K25:32Religious RutPSA 3:5PSA 4:8PSA 121:4PSA 127:2ISA 60:1ROM 13:11EPH 5:14In this sermon, the preacher draws a parallel between the Israelites in the Old Testament and the Church and its members in the present day. He emphasizes that both have settled into a contented rut and have become complacent in their spiritual journey. The preacher urges the congregation to break free from this routine and take hold of the promises and blessings that God has for them. He shares testimonies of individuals who were inspired by his previous sermons to let go of material possessions and idols in order to pursue a deeper relationship with God.
(Titus - Part 4): In Hope of Eternal Life Ii
By A.W. Tozer3.9K33:24TitusPSA 121:4ISA 40:28ISA 53:12MAL 3:6LUK 1:372TI 2:13TIT 1:2In this sermon, the preacher begins by emphasizing the importance of family night and invites everyone to attend. He then focuses on a passage from the book of Titus, where Paul declares himself as a servant of God and apostle. The preacher highlights the significance of the phrase "in hope of eternal life" and discusses the trustworthiness of God's promises. He also mentions the struggle to believe in these promises and encourages the congregation to have faith. The sermon includes references to various biblical figures and teachings, such as John Flavill's sermon on Isaiah 53:12 and the concept of a covenant between God the Father and Jesus Christ.
Going Up to Zion
By Art Katz2.5K1:13:00ZionPSA 2:6PSA 68:8PSA 80:3PSA 80:19PSA 94:1PSA 102:13PSA 121:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the presence of God in the worship of Israel. The people of Israel expected and called for a powerful manifestation of God during their observances. However, over time, they lost the true sense of God's presence and their worship became perfunctory. The speaker highlights the need for a renewal of the understanding that God is the central actor in their worship and in all of reality. He also emphasizes the importance of the congregation in experiencing and witnessing to the reality of God's presence.
The Glory of God - Part 3
By T. Austin-Sparks2.4K33:13Glory Of GodPSA 121:4ACT 12:7EPH 1:15PHP 2:13JAS 2:11PE 4:12In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of Peter's imprisonment and miraculous escape. He emphasizes the contradiction and confusion that arose when Peter found himself in the dungeon, bound and bleeding. The speaker suggests that it would have been impossible for any human effort to free Peter that night, as the forces of the world were determined to keep him captive. However, the Lord of glory intervened and sent an angel to release Peter from his chains and lead him to freedom. The speaker connects this story to the concept of glory, defining it as God's expression of satisfaction and delight, and encourages believers to rejoice in their participation in Christ's sufferings. The sermon concludes by highlighting the significance of Peter's letters, which were written years after his miraculous escape.
Now Thee Alone I Seek
By Vance Havner2.2K41:10Seeking GodGEN 15:1JOS 1:2PSA 23:1PSA 30:5PSA 121:4HEB 11:6HEB 12:6In this sermon, the preacher encourages the audience to rearrange the verses of a hymn to prepare themselves for a powerful message in verse 2. He urges them to let go of worldly desires and seek God above all else. The preacher acknowledges that there are many unanswered questions and uncertainties in life, but compares it to a child being distracted by a chocolate cake while eating spinach. He emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's plan and not being overwhelmed by the unknown. The preacher also shares his personal experience of struggling with insomnia and finding comfort in God's presence. He concludes by highlighting the idea of tasting the powers of the age to come and encourages the audience to seek a deeper understanding of God's promises.
Judging, Being Judged, and the Marks of a Spiritual Minister
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.2K28:59JudgingGEN 17:1PSA 121:4LUK 19:131CO 3:101CO 4:51CO 9:16HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the apostle Paul and his readiness for anything. He emphasizes the importance of being ready for God's calling and being dedicated to doing His will. The preacher also highlights the need for Christians to refrain from judging others and instead focus on praying for a ministry that is unflinchingly committed to God. Additionally, the preacher warns against false apostles and the dangers of criticism, urging believers to be cautious and remain faithful to the foundation laid by wise builders like Paul.
(Through the Bible) Nehemiah & Esther
By Zac Poonen52655:51NEH 1:4NEH 6:15EST 4:14EST 6:1EST 9:1PSA 121:4PRO 21:30ISA 41:10ROM 8:311PE 5:7This sermon delves into the stories of Nehemiah and Esther, highlighting the contrast between those who are willing to sacrifice for God's work and those who seek comfort and compromise. It emphasizes the importance of selflessness, sacrifice, and being concerned with the glory of God's name. The sermon underscores God's sovereign protection over His people, even in the face of opposition and schemes by the enemy.
Intimacy: Strive to Enter His Rest
By Stewart Ruch37022:28IntimacyGEN 1:1GEN 2:2EXO 3:14EXO 20:8PSA 121:4HEB 3:14HEB 4:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Eric Little, a Scottish runner in the 1920s. The focus is not on Little's athletic achievements, but on what he sacrificed for his faith. Little, a devout Scottish Presbyterian, refused to run in the Olympics on a Sunday, which was considered the Lord's day. Despite facing criticism and pressure from the International Olympic Committee and his own country, Little stood firm in his decision to prioritize his faith over his athletic pursuits. The sermon emphasizes the importance of enduring faith and the need to prioritize our relationship with God over worldly achievements.
Hebrews 7:1-10
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 121:4ISA 1:16MAT 5:8MAT 15:19ROM 9:16HEB 7:4HEB 7:8John Chrysostom preaches on the significance of Melchisedec, King of Salem, Priest of the Most High God, as a type of Christ, emphasizing his titles 'King of Righteousness' and 'King of Peace' which point to Jesus. Chrysostom explains the mysterious nature of Melchisedec, being without father, mother, genealogy, beginning of days, or end of life, likening him to the Son of God. He highlights Melchisedec's superiority over Abraham, the Levites, and the Jewish priesthood, showing how the priesthood of Melchisedec foreshadows the eternal priesthood of Christ. Chrysostom urges believers to guard themselves against spiritual slumber, emphasizing the importance of free will in choosing righteousness and the need for repentance to cleanse the soul from sin.
God Hasn’t Even Fainted
By David Wilkerson0Trust in GodGod's OmnipotencePSA 121:4ISA 40:28ISA 40:31MAT 11:28HEB 13:5David Wilkerson emphasizes the everlasting nature of God, who neither faints nor grows weary, reminding us that He is always present and attentive to our needs. He challenges the misconception that God is distant or inactive in our lives, urging us to recognize His omnipotence and constant guidance. Wilkerson reassures believers that those who place their trust in God will find renewed strength and vitality, soaring like eagles and persevering through life's challenges.
Epistle 265
By George Fox0PSA 110:3PSA 121:4MAT 25:1JHN 4:241CO 3:162CO 6:2EPH 4:302TH 2:31PE 1:5REV 19:7George Fox preaches about the importance of believers in the light of Christ being kept by the power of God until the day of salvation, emphasizing the need to stay pure and blameless through the power of God. He uses the parable of the virgins in Matthew 25 to illustrate the concept of being preserved in virginity by the power of God. Fox urges believers to have faith in the power of God as their keeper, guiding them through temptations and leading them to the day of God's power and salvation.
A Most Unlikely Evangelist
By Denis Lyle0GEN 18:14GEN 50:20LEV 13:45DEU 6:71SA 2:201KI 20:1PSA 121:4ISA 24:15ROM 8:28HEB 1:1Denis Lyle preaches about the story of a most unlikely evangelist, a little maid in Naaman's house, who despite being a captive, displayed unwavering faith, compassion, and confidence in God, leading to the supernatural recovery of Naaman from leprosy and his conversion to the true and living God. The sermon emphasizes that God does not require a specific mold for those He uses, but rather looks at the heart and faith of individuals, showcasing His infinite variety and unique purposes for each person.
Psalms 127
By Chuck Smith0Trust in GodDivine ProsperityPSA 1:3PSA 37:16PSA 121:4PSA 127:1PRO 10:22MAT 6:33MAT 16:18ACT 2:47PHP 4:191TI 6:6Chuck Smith emphasizes the futility of relying on human effort to build the church and protect our cities, reminding us that without the Lord's involvement, all labor is in vain. He highlights the alarming statistics of declining faith and the dangers posed by modern threats, urging believers to trust in God's promise to build His house and keep His people safe. Smith reassures that true prosperity comes from seeking God rather than material pursuits, and that peace and success are gifts from God to those who trust in Him.
God Controls Our Circumstances
By Zac Poonen0EST 6:1PSA 4:8PSA 121:4PRO 26:27ISA 41:10ZEP 3:17ROM 8:311PE 5:7Zac Poonen preaches on the story of Esther, highlighting how God orchestrated events to rescue the Jews from destruction through a series of seemingly small incidents. Despite the wicked plans of Haman and his wife, God was silently working on behalf of Mordecai, showcasing His perfect timing and ability to turn the tables on Satan. The story serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty over all things, encouraging believers to trust in His protection and to rest peacefully knowing that God is always planning for their good.
The Incarnation Part 7 - "The Angel"
By Charles Alexander0GEN 3:15PSA 121:4ISA 40:11LUK 2:9JHN 16:22JHN 20:20ROM 6:8HEB 12:21PE 5:4Charles Alexander preaches on the profound significance of the angelic announcement of the Lord's birth to the shepherds, emphasizing the divine inspiration of the Word that continually reveals fresh insights. He delves into the symbolism of the shepherds being chosen to receive the message, representing the Chief Shepherd, Jesus, who was born that night. The sermon highlights the humility and exaltation of Christ, born in a manger for the salvation of all people, bringing great joy and eternal hope to humanity.
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
The Lord is thy keeper,.... This explains more fully who it is that keeps Israel and particular believers, and confirms the same; not a creature, but the Lord; the Word of the Lord, as the Targum, in Psa 121:7, Christ, the Word and Wisdom of God; who is the keeper of his people by the designation of his Father, who has put them into his hands to be kept by him; and by their full will and consent, who commit the keeping of their souls to him; for which he is abundantly qualified, being able as the mighty God; faithful to him that has appointed him; tender and compassionate to those under his care, whom he keeps as the apple of his eye; and diligent and constant, for he keeps them night and day, lest any hurt them: he keeps them as they are his flock, made his care and charge; as they are the vineyard of the Lord of hosts; as they are a city, which, unless the Lord keeps, the watchmen watch in vain; as they are his body and members of it, and as they are his jewels and peculiar treasure: these he keeps in the love of God; in his own hands; in the covenant of grace; in an estate of grace; and in his own ways, safe to his kingdom and glory; the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand; he is at the right hand of his people, to hold their right hand; to teach them to go, lead them into communion with himself, and hold them up safe; and to strengthen their right hand, assist them in working, without whom they can do nothing; and to counsel and direct them, and to protect and defend them against all their enemies. So a shadow signifies defence; see Num 14:9, Ecc 7:12; and such great personages are to others; in which sense Virgil (n) uses the word "shadow"; and much more true is this of God himself. And he is like the shadow of a great rock in a weary land; or of a spreading tree, which is a protection from heat, and very reviving and refreshing; see Isa 32:2. The allusion may be to the pillar of cloud by day, which guided and guarded the Israelites in the wilderness, and was a shadow from the heat, Isa 4:5; as Christ is from the heat of a fiery law, the flaming sword of justice, the wrath of God, and the fiery darts of Satan. (n) "Et magnum reginae nomen obumbrat", Aeneid. l. xi.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
121:4-6 The Creator (121:2) is the guardian of Israel. • God stands beside Israel, supporting and caring for the godly (see 16:7-8). • Both the sun and the moon were regarded as deities in the ancient Near East, but the Creator limits their power. They, too, praise the Lord (148:3). 121:4 God watches over his own, even and especially when they face many troubles (12:5, 7; 69:29; 91:14; 146:9).