December 21, 2024
Daily Devotion:
"Eyes Fixed On the Master"
Psalm 123:2-4
New Living Translation
2 We keep looking to the Lord our God for his mercy, just as servants keep their eyes on their master, as a slave girl watches her mistress for the slightest signal. 3 Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy, for we have had our fill of contempt. 4 We have had more than our fill of the scoffing of the proud and the contempt of the arrogant.
Psalm 123 is a poignant expression of dependence on God amidst distress. The psalmist begins by looking upward, signifying our need to always direct our hearts and minds toward God. "I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven" (Psalm 123:1, NIV). This verse emphasizes our acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and
power.
In verses 2-3, the psalmist likens himself to a servant looking to their master, showcasing humility and trust. "As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master... So our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he shows us his mercy" (Psalm 123:2-3,
NIV). This imagery reminds us that our hope is anchored in God's mercy, especially in times of trouble.
Finally, verse 4 highlights the overwhelming nature of suffering. "We have endured no end of contempt" (Psalm 123:4, NIV). This serves as a reminder that while we face
scorn and challenges, we can find refuge in God's faithfulness.
In summary, Psalm 123 teaches us about reliance on God, the importance of humility, and the assurance we have in His mercy. Let us lift our eyes to Him, trusting in His goodness.
