What is the meaning of Psalms 123:2?

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.

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Psalms 123:2 Bible Verse Meaning

Bible Verse Meaning: Psalms 123:2

Verse: "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

Overview

Psalms 123:2 expresses a profound understanding of dependence on God. This verse illustrates the relationship between servants and their masters, reflecting the appropriate posture of expectation and reliance that believers should have towards God.

Interpretation of Psalms 123:2

The verse compares the attention of servants to their masters and a maiden to her mistress with the longing and watchfulness of the faithful towards God. This analogy emphasizes the trust in the Lord’s provision and mercy, and the importance of awaiting His guidance with patience.

Commentary Insights

  • Matthew Henry: He emphasizes that the faithful look to God with the same diligence as servants look to their earthly masters, suggesting that the Lord is a source of total reliance and hope. He notes that such anticipation is not just for physical needs but also spiritual help.
  • Albert Barnes: Barnes interprets this verse as a metaphor for absolute dependence on God. Just like servants await their master’s orders, believers should be attentive to the Lord’s will, believing that He will extend mercy in His time.
  • Adam Clarke: Clarke focuses on the expression of waiting and dependence, explaining that the verse illustrates a proactive waiting—an active expectation of God's mercy. He relates this to the Israelite's predicament, assuring that they are looking up to God amidst oppression, waiting for deliverance.

Applications of Psalms 123:2

This verse can be applied in various aspects of life, such as:

  • Spiritual Discipline: It emphasizes the importance of prayer and the posture of waiting on God in all circumstances.
  • Faith in Adversity: It encourages believers who face trials to remain patient and hopeful while trusting in God’s faithfulness.
  • Obedience to God’s Call: Just as servants listen for their master's instructions, Christians are called to be attentive to God's voice and leading in their lives.

Related Scriptures

  • Psalms 121:1-2 - "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help." - This verse also speaks to looking to God for help and guidance.
  • Psalms 27:14 - "Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord." - Encouraging believers to actively wait for God’s intervention.
  • Isaiah 40:31 - "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles." - This illustrates the reward of those who wait upon God.

Conclusion

Psalms 123:2 teaches invaluable lessons about reliance on God, the importance of waiting on Him for mercy and help, and reflects the fundamental attitude necessary for a believer’s life. Engaging in Bible verse study with this insight encourages deeper Bible verse understanding and enriches one's spiritual life.

Psalms 123 (KJV) Verse Selection