Save me, LORD,
    from lying lips
    and from deceitful tongues. — Psalm 120:2

In honour of my father, FellowshipFounder Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, of blessed memory, and his lifework helping Christians understand the Jewish roots of their faith, I offer you one of his devotional teachings from the beloved Psalms.

Psalm 120 is the first of 15 psalms called “Songs of Ascent.” One reason these psalms are given this title is because they are especially conducive to lifting a person up from hopelessness and helplessness into knowing that anything is possible with God. Through reciting these psalms a person ascends, rising above circumstances and coming closer to God.

In this particular psalm, King David voiced concerns over the lies that were spoken about him. Like David, we pray “Save me, LORD, from lying lips.”  In this psalm, David likened lies to “a warrior’s sharp arrows” (v.4). The Jewish sages explain that just as an arrow is designed to kill from afar, so, too, can false words bring danger to those at a distance from the speaker. No wonder David turned to God for help! How else could he protect himself from the danger of false words, the sharp arrows pointed in his direction?

The Danger of False Words

Appropriately, this psalm is often read when the people of Israel are in danger. David wrote: “I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war” (v.7).

But we need to do our part. Whether it’s doctored pictures or blatant lies, we need to uncover the truth and spread it. With today’s technology, it’s easier than ever to learn the truth and share it. Our enemies may use their words to harm, but we can use our words to heal. We can use our words to speak the truth, and most importantly, to pray. Pray for the safety of Israel and protection from all destructive lies.

Your turn: Don’t forget to tune into my podcast, Nourish Your Biblical Roots, which airs today with a new episode!