A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene H. Peterson
Week 3: Chapter 2 — Help (Psalm 121)
Read Chapter 2 of A Long Obedience in the Same Direction. Primary text: Psalm 121.
Previewing Week 3 of A Long Obedience in the Same Direction
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Having turned away from Meshech, the pilgrim now lifts their eyes to the hills — and discovers that the help they need does not come from the mountains but from the One who made them.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Psalm 121 opens with one of the most famous lines in the Psalter: "I lift up my eyes to the hills — where does my help come from?" Peterson argues that this is actually a question expressing anxiety, not confidence — the pilgrim is looking at the hills and feeling small. Have you ever found yourself looking at something imposing and wondering where help would come from?
2.Peterson emphasizes that help is described in Psalm 121 not as an occasional rescue but as constant, unwearying watch — "he who watches over you will not slumber." What does it mean to you that God's attention to your life is not intermittent? How does that affect the way you pray?
3.Peterson writes about the danger of looking to the wrong sources for help — to the "hills" (perhaps powerful people, institutions, or our own resources) rather than to the Lord. What are the hills you are most tempted to look to for security or rescue?