A song of ascents. I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?
It is wise to look to the strong for strength. Down in the valleys, the plundered are prey to marauders; the surest escape is the heights. Satan blindfolds our eyes to our sorrows to disquiet us; resolve instead to look up to the eternal hills, to God's purposes, attributes, promises, and proven faithfulness, and your heart shall be lifted up also.
AI summary
This psalm stands alone inscribed 'song for ascents' rather than 'song of ascents,' and the Lamed marks it as formed according to the rule or standard of steps, a step-like movement of thought ascending throughout. The opening fixes the singer in one place, far from home mountains, gazing outward; he is no pilgrim on the road but settled and looking toward help from beyond.
AI summary
The lifting of eyes is bold, confident prayer, the posture of hope and expectation. Some read this interrogatively: Shall I lift my eyes to hills, to idols worshipped there, or to powerful kings? No. Salvation comes not from them; it is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes. My help comes from the Lord, not from hills or men.
AI summary