Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever. As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people both now and forevermore. (Psalm 125:1-2) For the LORD has chosen Zion, he has desired it for his dwelling: “This is my resting place for ever and ever…” (Psalm 132:13-14)
In these beautiful word pictures, the psalmist describes three of the most blessed provisions of God for His people: stability, security and rest. The world craves these blessings and seeks them in various ways, but never finds them in true or abiding form. Yet there is a place where we may find all three. It is pictured as a mountain, Zion, and as a city, Jerusalem.
Mount Zion pictures stability. All other mountains will be shaken, all other hills removed (Isaiah 54:10). But Mount Zion cannot be shaken, It is unique among all earth’s mountains, because God has set it apart for His own dwelling place.
Jerusalem pictures security. All who have ever traveled to Jerusalem can confirm the accuracy of the psalmist’s description. No matter from what point of the compass you approach the city, you must pass through mountains to reach it, for they surround it on all sides. In like manner, the presence of Almighty God surrounds His people.
Stability and security, in turn, offer us rest, never-ending rest. God has declared: “This is my resting place for ever and ever. …” Sharing God’s dwelling and surrounded by His presence, we enter His rest.
Adapted from the book, Chords from David’s Harp.
