SONG FOR THE AFFLICTED – Psalm 129 – 6-9-24

Psalm 129 addresses 2 groups of people: Israel and those who hate Zion. What of those who stand in the way of ascent? What should the nation do If Israel's enemies assail the peace and livelihood of the land thereby disrupting temple worship? Ps 129 acknowledges the weakness and hardship the nation has endured and lifts a rallying cry of worship inspired by the power and authority of a righteous God to judge His enemies as the hope for His people's endurance. The faith of God's people is strengthened by this worship song and the bigger picture of God's purposes and providence in the story of His people. This is true of Old Testament Israel and the New Testament church. Spurgeon writes: "Persecution is the heirloom of the church.of God and the ensign of the elect ... " he continues ... "The earliest years of Israel and the church of God were spent in trial.. Babes in grace are cradled in opposition. No sooner is the man-child born than the dragon is after it. It is, however, "good tor a man that he bear the yoke of his youth", and he shall see it to be so when in after days he tells the tale.