Freely Speaking - Devotional by Susan Hales

Welcome to Freely Speaking, an OHSOFREE devotional ministry where we share our hearts and trust God for transformation.

Today’s devotional is written by Susan Hales, and narrated by Angela Gray.

"I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth" (Psalm 121:1–2 ESV).

Does the Holy Spirit offer you new insights while reading Scripture? Even after reading Psalm 121 countless times, He offered me a fresh perspective and made me think about who or what I really depend on.

I used to believe that verse one of our key scripture implied the psalmist looked up to God dwelling in the hills (or mountains in other translations). However, in the ancient world, the altars of the pagan gods such as Asherah, Ishtar, Baal, and Dagon were placed on hills and mountaintops. These “high places” were dedicated to idol worship.

In verse two, the psalmist answers the question in verse one. Don't be fooled into trusting the useless false gods on the hills. These gods are not Yahweh, the one true God. Look up higher to the heavens. My help comes only from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Instead of pagan gods, we turn to other people or things for help and security instead of God. For example, our bank accounts, power and influence, social connections, constant busyness, possessions, and our own abilities and strength.

These false “gods” tempt us with security instead of the true security only God can provide. Jesus is the example for us to follow. When Satan tempted Him in the wilderness, he offered all the kingdoms of the world if Jesus would worship him. And Jesus replied, “You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve” (Matthew 4:10b ESV).

Turn away from the tempting alternatives from Satan. Look up to the Creator, not the creation. Look beyond the hills upward to the Lord who made heaven and earth.

Today, think about your priorities. What or who do you depend on most? Jesus is all we need to provide help, security, pleasure, and joy.

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