LYING LIPS Psalm 120

Background Author and time of this psalm is unknown A psalm of ascents – 15 psalms believed to be sung as the faithful journey to Jerusalem for major feasts Also called, “A song of degrees” (KJV) Possibly written by one whose neighbor has slandered him and he turns to God

In my distress, I cried to the LORD Answered prayer (1-2) In my distress, I cried to the LORD Prayer in times of sorrow – James 5:13, 1 Peter 5:7, Matthew 11:28-30

Answered prayer (1-2) And He heard me God does hear our prayers – Psalm 3:4, 34:4, 40:1, 66:19, etc. 1 John 5:14-15, 3:21-22 Luke 18:6-7

Answered prayer (1-2) Deliver my soul from lying lips and a deceitful tongue Words do hurt! The tongue – James 3:1-12 (vs. 5-6) Distress caused by malicious words Christians – Ephesians 4:25-27, 31-32 Pray for deliverance – Matt. 6:13

Fate of the deceiver (3-4) What shall be given to you,…you false tongue? Repentance – Luke 13:3, 5 Sharp arrows – the product of an evil tongue Jeremiah 9:8, Proverbs 25:18 Coals of the broom tree (Juniper) – a fire that burns quick, hot and long James 3:6 – set on fire by hell

Fate of the deceiver (3-4) Sharp arrows and coals Directed TOWARD the false tongue The wrath of God - Revelation 21:8 The fires of hell Mark 9:44 Often times the liar is exposed and his sins are turned against him

I dwell in Meshech and the tents of Kedar Desire for peace (5-7) I dwell in Meshech and the tents of Kedar Places of foreigners – either the psalmist lives in that region Or it is an analogy

Desire for peace (5-7) My soul has dwelt too long with one who hates peace. Sometimes our environment can be frustrating but we must persist. Be careful not to surrender your integrity Matthew 7:12, Romans 12:17-21 Consider Lot – 2 Peter 2:7 – he was tormented AND it cost him Sometimes we need to move on

Desire for peace (5-7) I am for peace Are we part of the problem? Pursue peace Romans 12:18 Romans 14:19 Hebrews 12:14 Ephesians 4:29 James 3:18 Proverbs 15:1 – a soft answer turns away wrath

We cannot control how others behave, but we can control how we behave

How do you respond when you are facing dilemmas!