Psalm 131

The Word Made Fresh

(A song of ascent: of David.)

1LORD, I’m not lifting up my life as an example,
and my ambitions are not lofty.
I don’t long for things too great and wonderful for me.
2But I have calmed and quieted myself
like a weaned child in its mother’s arms.
I come to you like that weaned child.
3Israel, trust your future to the LORD,
today and every day from now on.

Commentary

Superscription: the 12th “song of ascent;” the 64th “psalm of David.”

1-3: There is no situation to pray for. This is not a prayer for help or rescue. This is simply an expression of the desire to be in God’s presence for a while.

Takeaway

This is my favorite among all the “songs of ascent.” It is the simple prayer of a humble believer who only wishes to sit awhile in God’s lap. I love the expression, “like a weaned child.” There is no need, no desire to be fed, no agenda, indeed no reason at all to be there other than to be quietly in the company of the giver of life. It is the best kind of prayer.