A Journey of Worship: The Psalms of Ascent
In ancient times the people of Israel took sacred journeys to the temple in Jerusalem to worship. They did this during specific yearly festivals. As they traversed mountains and made their way, they would sing what are known as Songs of Ascent. The collection of Psalms 120-134 is known as the Songs of Ascents. Sometimes, these fifteen Psalms are called the Pilgrim Songs. They're also referred to as the Gradual Psalms, Fifteen Psalms, Songs of Degrees, Songs of Steps, or songs sung while ascending to worship.
These songs served as reminders to the people of God's grace. They also reminded them of His mercy, provision, protection, and salvation. Some of them acknowledged Yahweh as their source of strength. This was especially encouraging during times of trouble (Psalm 121). Others recounted historical events of God's deliverance (Psalm 126). The songs contained verses of surrender, pleas for deliverance, and condemnation over sins.
These songs served as reminders to the people of God's grace. They also reminded them of His mercy, provision, protection, and salvation. Some of them acknowledged Yahweh as their source of strength. This was especially encouraging during times of trouble (Psalm 121). Others recounted historical events of God's deliverance (Psalm 126). The songs contained verses of surrender, pleas for deliverance, and condemnation over sins.
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Today our places of worship are generally minutes from our homes. However, we can still draw wisdom from this ancient practice. The Christian life is a journey, filled with ups and downs. Sometimes the path is smooth, while at other times, it is filled with challenges. If we live long enough, we will inevitably confront difficulties including our own weaknesses. The trials presented by this broken world, often force us to confront our own weaknesses. Scripture teaches us that this realization is not a negative thing. In fact, it often produces the humility that God desires. Confronting our own weaknesses creates a proper understanding of our position in God. It also reveals our reliance on His amazing grace. In those moments, we are reminded of the attributes of God and cling to the truths of His Word.
True worship originates from a place of humility. It acknowledges our dependence on God as our Father, who lifts us up as we fix our gaze upon Him. And as we continue this journey we remind ourselves of the ultimate destination. That destination is the worship of the One true God for all eternity. Indeed, we are pilgrims, my friend, weary travelers at times. We are pilgrims who need constant reminders of God's sovereignty. We're pilgrims who need to wholeheartedly seek His guidance. We're pilgrims who rely on the gift of His forgiveness. And, we’re pilgrims who find courage in His strength, even in the lowest valleys of despair. From this humble position, true worship begins. |
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In this 3-part Bible study you will study and meditate on all 15 of the Psalms of Ascent:
- In the depths of despair, we lift our eyes upward and cry, “Deliver me!” (Psalm 120-124).
- In the face of persecution, we rest in the comfort of God’s presence (Psalm 125-129).
- In times of waiting, we find calm and quiet for our weary souls (Psalm 130-134).
This 130+ page, full-color Bible study is gorgeous! In it, you will find our signature coloring sheets, one for each of the 15 chapters. You will also discover a prayer from Scripture for each chapter—I love praying Scripture! You'll find questions for personal reflection and spaces to write out Scripture. I love Scripture writing! It’s a great way to meditate on and memorize God’s Word.
