In my trouble I cried to the LORD, And He answered me. (v.1) This opening line of Psalm 120 sets a personal and urgent tone, describing a moment of deep distress when the psalmist calls upon God. Although the text does not specify the precise nature of this trouble, it clearly underscores a powerful trust that God will hear and respond. Psalm 120 is the first of the “Songs of Ascents,” a collection of psalms (120-134) that pilgrims likely sang while journeying to Jerusalem, which sat high in elevation compared to surrounding regions. The physical act of ascending to Jerusalem thus mirrors the spiritual act of looking upward in expectation of the LORD’s help.
The psalmist’s statement, I cried to the LORD, And He answered me, points to our Creator’s willingness to intervene when His people call. Each word declares that God not only pays attention to our troubles, but also provides a solution in His perfect timing. Throughout Scripture, other psalmists echo this pattern of crying out to God and finding deliverance (Psalm 34:4). Jesus Himself modeled this complete reliance on the Father, entrusting every need and concern to Him, even in His darkest hours.
God answers heartfelt cries, offering deliverance and strengthening faith with each act of rescue. His responsiveness comforts those who seek Him, reminding us that we are not abandoned in our trials.
He hears.
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Psalms 120:1 meaning
In my trouble I cried to the LORD, And He answered me. (v.1) This opening line of Psalm 120 sets a personal and urgent tone, describing a moment of deep distress when the psalmist calls upon God. Although the text does not specify the precise nature of this trouble, it clearly underscores a powerful trust that God will hear and respond. Psalm 120 is the first of the “Songs of Ascents,” a collection of psalms (120-134) that pilgrims likely sang while journeying to Jerusalem, which sat high in elevation compared to surrounding regions. The physical act of ascending to Jerusalem thus mirrors the spiritual act of looking upward in expectation of the LORD’s help.
The psalmist’s statement, I cried to the LORD, And He answered me, points to our Creator’s willingness to intervene when His people call. Each word declares that God not only pays attention to our troubles, but also provides a solution in His perfect timing. Throughout Scripture, other psalmists echo this pattern of crying out to God and finding deliverance (Psalm 34:4). Jesus Himself modeled this complete reliance on the Father, entrusting every need and concern to Him, even in His darkest hours.
God answers heartfelt cries, offering deliverance and strengthening faith with each act of rescue. His responsiveness comforts those who seek Him, reminding us that we are not abandoned in our trials.
He hears.