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Lutheran reading notes

In Psalms chapter 123, the wisdom literature continues to explore prayer, worship, lament, praise, and trust in God. Lutheran interpretation often emphasizes humanity’s limitations and the need to rely on God's grace and promises. The chapter highlights the contrast between human striving and the faithfulness of God.

Theme: Wisdom, prayer, and faithful living Key people: Wise figures Key place: Israel Liturgical use: Wisdom lections
1 [A Song of degrees.] Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens.
Psalms 123:1 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
2 Behold, as the eyes of servants {look} unto the hand of their masters, {and} as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes {wait} upon the LORD our God, until that he have mercy upon us.
Psalms 123:2 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
3 Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us: for we are exceedingly filled with contempt.
Psalms 123:3 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
4 Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorning of those that are at ease, {and} with the contempt of the proud.
Psalms 123:4 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.