Surrounded

“As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people both now and forevermore.” Psalm 125:2

I love this verse. After rediscovering it a few years ago, I personalized it and made it part of my early morning prayer each day. Before even getting out of bed, I give the Lord my day and place my times in His hands. Then along with a few basic requests, I add, “And Lord, as the mountains surround Jerusalem, so surround me with Your peace and Your protection.”

Sometimes the thought of being surrounded brings up negative images, but that’s certainly not the case here. Not for me—not when it’s the Lord doing the surrounding.

I suppose if someone didn’t love the Lord or was trying to run or hide from Him, it would be a frightening prospect to be surrounded by the Almighty. But for those who know and love Him and look to Him for help, great comfort lies in the precious knowledge of His surrounding presence and care.

The image of mountains, so strong and protective, surrounding a little town paints the perfect picture of what the Lord does for His people. The Lord stands guard, ever watchful, ever ready to protect and guide. He provides majesty and beauty, adventure and stability. He keeps us nestled in His peace as we look to Him.

Let’s picture ourselves surrounded by the Lord. Let’s relax in His care. Let’s snuggle down into that place of peace He has reserved for us. Let’s fix our eyes on Him. Are you with me? Let’s be surrounded by His peace.

“I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD watches over you—the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” —Psalm 121

*Flickr photo by Duncan~

*We enjoyed a wonderful visit with our kids last week during Spring Break. Hope you had a great week as well!

Comments

  1. What a beautiful picture of His protection and what a great idea to pray it before getting out of bed! Thanks for the challenge!

  2. I am easily frightened by the nighttime. This imagery is a beautiful gift to think upon as I go to sleep… knowing that God is watching over me and has us all in his sight! Thank you.

    peace~elaine

  3. What a comfortable post, surrounded by God on every side. Thanks for the reminder. Blessings!

  4. Ladies, thanks so much for each of your comments. So glad you took something away from this post!

  5. Hi Cheryl,

    I know a song from that Psalm 121 and you’ve got me singing it now. Thanks.

    Regarding your comment on my post “…Drafting Zeke,” yes, the concept of being known as a God-follower delights and convicts me too, Cheryl. Lord, make it so about us…

    Jennifer Dougan
    http://www.jenniferdougan.com

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