What does "I am for peace" reveal about the psalmist's character? Setting the context Psalm 120 is the first of the Songs of Ascents. The psalmist feels hemmed in by “lying lips” and “a deceitful tongue,” dwelling among hostile, war-minded neighbors (v. 1-6). Verse 7 captures his personal stance in that hostile setting. The verse itself “I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war.” — Psalm 120:7 What “I am for peace” reveals about the psalmist’s character • Peace-oriented heart – He isn’t merely avoiding conflict; he actively champions peace. – Echoes God’s own revealed preference: “He makes peace in His high places” (Job 25:2). • Moral courage amid opposition – Choosing peace while surrounded by warmongers requires steadfast bravery (cf. Psalm 34:14). • Integrity of speech – “When I speak” points to honest, straightforward words. His conversation matches his convictions, aligning with Proverbs 16:13. • Patience and restraint – He resists retaliatory impulses, modeling “slow to anger” (Proverbs 15:18). • Trust in the Lord’s vindication – Rather than taking matters into his own hands, he waits on God, reflecting Psalm 37:7-9. • A peacemaker’s calling – Prefigures Christ’s beatitude: “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9). – Mirrors Paul’s exhortation: “If it is possible…live in peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18). • Spiritual maturity – Prefers harmony over personal vindication, an attitude grown out of a God-centered worldview (James 3:17-18). Why this matters for us today • Demonstrates that a single believer, grounded in God’s Word, can stand for peace even in a culture of conflict. • Shows that true peace begins in the heart transformed by Scripture. • Encourages believers to speak peace consistently, trusting God with the results (Philippians 4:7). |
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