Daily Devotion of Psalm 120

Daily Nugget:
Psalm 120, and those up to Psalm 134, are called “Songs of Degrees.” There are different explanations of what the usage of them was. Many believe that some of them were sung while traveling to the Temple for worship.

However, like so many of the Psalms, there is a practical, everyday application that can be learned from this hymn. In this song, the frustration of damage done by lying lips is mentioned.

For many, dishonesty is not recognized for what it is; it is a sin. Like any iniquity, it does damage to the offender and often others. It is understandable why the hymn-writer would bemoan such misuse of one’s lips.

Some of the reasons lying is harmful is:

• Relationships are built on trust. How could a person rely on or believe what another has said if they have a history of dishonesty? A relationship built on lies will usually crumble when the truth is discovered.
• Often decisions are made on the words of another. When the utterances of one are not trustworthy, too often others make wrong decisions based on what one has said. Not only will the liar lose respect, but those repeating them will also be shamed.
• One of the most valuable possessions one can have is having a reputation for honesty. When one says they will do or did something and have not, the person’s character will be soiled and usually not valued in the future.
• Communication is to learn the truth of a matter. When falsehoods are uttered, it is deception, not honest dialogue. No one asks for lies. The truth is always expected.

The sin of lying has hurt more relationships and lives than can ever be imagined. A liar is never respected, but those that make honesty a vital part of their character are trusted and relied upon. Keep your words true. Others are listening and remembering, as is the Lord.

Today’s Thought:
“Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.” Proverbs 12:22

Words to Understand:
Juniper: an evergreen shrub

Today’s Reading:
Psalm 120
1 A Song of degrees. In my distress I cried unto the LORD, and he heard me.
2 Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips, and from a deceitful tongue.
3 What shall be given unto thee? or what shall be done unto thee, thou false tongue?
4 Sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals of juniper.
5 ¶ Woe is me, that I sojourn in Mesech, that I dwell in the tents of Kedar!
6 My soul hath long dwelt with him that hateth peace.
7 I am for peace: but when I speak, they are for war.