Wherever we look, we find people who are filled with despair and discouragement. Their hearts have been broken and their optimism beaten down. Issues and problems have overcome them. Everywhere they went and everywhere they looked they heard the same message: “Give up! There’s nothing here for you.”
No doubt most of us have felt that way.

When the lights go out at the end of the day and we are surrounded by darkness and fear; when there is no place to hide and no arms to embrace us; when we think that we have tried everything and there’s nothing left for us to hope for; does anyone anywhere have a word of advice or comfort for us?

Indeed there is: “I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Notice the words: “lift up!”

All too often it is all too easy to “give up” and not “look up.” But the Psalmist reminds us that our God transcends the uncertainties and difficulties, the pain and suffering, the loss and grief of this world. We are on the earth but must look up to heaven. We need help far beyond our own limited resources and the resources of others. We need wisdom that exceeds human wisdom. Unfortunately, we are all infected with a false sense of self-sufficiency.

But when we lift our eyes to heaven, we lift them up to the one Who created the universe. What love He has to bestow upon us and what strength is ours for the asking.

Prayer: Lord, may we turn our eyes and ears, minds and hearts heavenward and find Your joy and peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 121:1 I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from?