Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 125

The Security of Those Who Trust in the LORDThis psalm gives three wonderful promises to God’s people. These promises are meant for the true followers of God—those who are righteous and who trust in Him. Not everyone who claims to be God’s people will receive these blessings, but those who truly depend on God and live for Him can take comfort in these words. The more we trust God alone, the more we can expect from Him.v. 1: The first promise is that those who trust in the Lord

v. 2: The second promise is that God surrounds His people with protection. As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the Lord

v. 3: The third promise is that God will not let trouble last longer than His people can bear. For the rod of the wicked shall not rest upon the lot of the righteous; lest the righteous put forth their hands unto iniquity . Sometimes, evil people may have power over God’s people for a while, but God will not let it continue too long. If suffering lasted too long, even good people might be tempted to give up or do wrong. God knows our limits and will make sure our trials do not destroy our faith (Psalm 73:13-14 ).

The Security of God's People.This section highlights a prayer for God’s people and a warning for those who turn away from Him. The psalmist teaches that God cares for those who are truly sincere and upright in heart. At the same time, there is a clear difference between those who stay faithful and those who follow sinful ways. God promises blessing and peace to His people, but trouble for those who abandon the right path.v. 4: The psalmist prays, Do good, O Lord

v. 5: The psalmist warns that those who turn aside to crooked ways will be led away with the workers of iniquity (Psalms 125:5 ). This means that people who leave God’s path and choose sin will face the same punishment as the wicked. Their end will be destruction, but peace will rest on Israel, God’s faithful people. Even when judgment comes, God’s true people can trust that He will give them peace (Isaiah 65:13 ).