Psalm 120: A Plea for Peace

David knew Saul would pursue him with even greater fury with Samuel dead. He also knew no matter what the trying circumstances, God hears and answers prayer.

It is difficult to understand why some things are allowed to happen when we trust in God for protection. It is a fallacy to expect there will never be hardships or troubles just because one is a Christian. If we have this erroneous, privileged attitude, it is easier to lose faith when tribulations do come our way. The life of a Christian will not always be a bed of roses.

Troubles come to everyone. It is especially hard to bear slander.

Jesus knew persecution would come to His followers just as it befell Him. He, therefore, encouraged His listeners in His sermon on the mount: “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you” (Matthew 5:11, 12).

David wondered what God would do concerning those who were slandering his good name. “What shall be given unto thee? or what shall be done unto thee, thou false tongue?” (Psalm 120:3). He answers himself in verse 4: “Sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals of juniper.” “These sharp arrows represent the retribution the Lord brings upon the slanderer.” The juniper is a tree and shrub that burns exceptionally hot, much like manzanita or madrone wood.

The evil slanderer will ultimately be consumed in the intense heat of the lake of fire when final justice is meted out (Revelation 20:12–15).

Finally, David laments living in exile: “Woe is me, that I sojourn in Mesech, that I dwell in the tents of Kedar!” (Psalm 120:5). Saul does not want peace, and David cannot change his mind (v. 6). “David’s attempts to live peaceably with Saul and his evil advisers, were answered with hatred and hostility [v. 7].” “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men” (Romans 12:18).