Is also one of the most formational worship songs in my life. The stone-cold-classic “I Lift My Eyes Up” by Brian Doerksen. It shaped me for years. It still resonates with me today. Which is fitting, because the Psalms were meant to be sung.
Music is a powerful force. It influences our moods. It makes our bodies move. It stimulates our brains in deep ways—educators know this, which is why, (especially at younger ages, but it ought to be more common at older ages), so much is taught through song.
Case in point: How did you learn the alphabet?
Here are the first two verses of Psalm 121:
1 I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the Lord,the Maker of heaven and earth.
(Psalm 121)
Here’s what this Psalm/song formed in me: A reflex to look UP. Whatever valley I’m in, look UP. Whatever desert I’m walking through, look UP. Whatever stony path I’m stumbling down, look UP. Whatever troubles are right in front of me, look UP.
Eyes to the mountains in the distance, not to the troubles on the path beneath my feet.
What’s troubling you today? Where does your help come from?
