What does Psalm 121:3 mean?
There is a change in "voice" between verses 2 and 3 (Psalm 121:1–2). It seems the rest of the psalm records a response to the first two verses. The psalm might begin with the leader of a traveling group speaking and end with the group, or an individual in the group, responding.The affirmation we see in verse 3 agrees with the first speaker's claim that the Lord, the Creator, helps him. References to paths, footing, and related terms are common in the Bible as symbols for safety and following God's will (Psalm 1:1; 17:5; 73:2; 119:105; Jude 1:24). In this context, the declaration is especially appropriate. A traveler through the hills might easily slip or slide on the rocky trail and be injured. In both a spiritual and physical sense, this verse encourages confidence in God's protection. Even when earthly hardships occur (Psalm 22:12–18; 25:16) we can know God is in control (Romans 8:37–39).
The travelers also make a point of declaring that the Lord is never caught unaware. First Peter 3:12 assures us that "the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer." As we journey through life as pilgrims, we can count on the Lord to watch over us. No struggle comes to us without His awareness or outside of His control (John 16:33).
Psalm 121:3–8 continues the theme of God's protection of His people. It portrays Him as the guardian of Israel who never rests from His care of His people. He would watch over the travelers to Jerusalem both day and night. He would protect them from the blazing heat of the sun and from the cold nighttime temperatures. He would also watch over His people throughout the course of their daily activities.
Songs of ascent were probably used to pass the time as pilgrims traveled to Jerusalem for one of the required feasts. In this example, someone comments about the hills, possibly worried about the presence of robbers. They express faith in God's protection. This is echoed, perhaps by others in the traveling party. They point out that God is never caught unaware, and that His loving guidance of His people will never end.
