To the Hills

"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)

My parents had a painting in their home with this verse inscribed at the bottom. I've always loved it, even before Mom and Dad got that painting. Raised in a family which spent countless Christmas breaks in the hill country of south Texas, this passage has always held special meaning for me. I know God is everywhere, but I've always imagined when David was running from his enemies, the hills he looked to were a lot like those down south.

Some people categorize this psalm as a battle psalm. Others label it a traveler's psalm. I'm not sure we actually need to pigeonhole the poem, though. The main point, in my humble opinion, is simple: God is my help.

No matter my situation, the Lord will send help when I ask. That help may come in the form of strength I didn't realize I had. It could come in the form of a fellow Christian to walk beside me. God, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, will send me what help I need, when I need it.

All I need do is ask.

What a comfort. To know He is always there, always with me, always ready to provide help.

I have a tendency to think I can do everything on my own. It's the American way, after all. Admittedly, it's also my way. Did I mention I'm a little stubborn? So this lesson didn't come easy to me. I had to learn it again and again. Occasionally, I still fail to ask God for His help until I've completely messed up. Then it's a palm to the forehead and a, "You idiot. Why haven't you asked for His help?" Because His help will always be better than anything I can come up with.

I pray I will always remember to lean on Him and to ask for His help. His help will always come, and it will always be the right help. And when I forget--because I will sometimes--I know He'll always be there when I do remember.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

• What do I need help with in my life that only God can give? Have I asked for His help with the situation?
• Where can I be used by God to help someone else? Have I asked Him to open my eyes to see where I can help my brother or sister?