GOD NEVER SLEEPS

PSALM 121:3-4 New Living Translation

“He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber. Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps.”

       This Psalm is yet another example of God’s protection over His people.  He never takes a nap or lies down to sleep at any time because He is a supernatural spirit being who doesn’t become tired. This tells us He is available to watch over us at any time of the day or night. He is constantly aware of our comings and goings and will direct us by His Holy Spirit if we let Him. Although our God doesn’t sleep, this cannot be said of anyone else. That’s why it’s somewhat amusing when the Prophet Elijah ridicules the prophets of Baal by suggesting that perhaps their god was asleep and that’s why he doesn’t hear them when they cry out to him.⁽¹⁾

       The first portion of this verse speaks of how God will keep His children from stumbling.  The apparent reason for the author’s mentioning this is because of the Israeli terrain, which is known for being rocky and slippery.  Trials can be like slippery slopes if we are not careful and tribulations can be like rocky hills that are difficult to maneuver thru.  If we tap into the Holy Spirit during these times we will navigate thru any terrain with confidence. 

       It’s very clear throughout scripture that God can be trusted to care for us and protect us.  It’s when we try to negotiate these events on our own that we run into difficulties.  Lean as heavily on the Lord as you feel you need to.  He’s there for you and wishes to bless you beyond measure. Trust Him and follow His lead. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible; Tyndale House Publishing.  The Reformation Study Bible; published and distributed by Ligonier Ministries.

NOTE:  This Psalm is a Song of Ascent; it was sung by Jewish pilgrims as they ascended to Jerusalem.  The author of this Psalm is unknown, although some scholars suggest it may be Hezekiah.

⁽¹⁾ 1 Kings 18:27 (NLT)

“About noontime Elijah began mocking them. ‘You’ll have to shout louder,’ he scoffed, ‘for surely he is a god! Perhaps he is daydreaming, or is relieving himself. Or maybe he is away on a trip, or is asleep and needs to be wakened!’”