When was the last time you needed help? All of us face difficulties in life. Some are small inconveniences we can quickly resolve, while others bring us through the darkest valleys. There are struggles we can share easily, and others we carry quietly in our hearts. These are times when even holding on to hope feels hard.

In the midst of these, it becomes a blessing to have a support system, where there are people we can turn to in times of need. Yet, as much as we value these relationships, we must look beyond them. Life has taught us that no safety plan, insurance policy, or security system can guarantee absolute protection. We can follow every precaution and live as wisely as we can, but things can still go wrong. And that is why we must ultimately lift our eyes to God, our true source of help.

Psalm 121 gives voice to that upward gaze. The psalmist, aware of his own vulnerability, asks where help will come from. And he answers his own question with confidence: “My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” His assurance rests not in circumstances or human strength, but in the Creator of the universe, the One who never changes, never fails, and never sleeps.

Throughout the psalm, the word “keep” (or “watch over”) appears six times. It paints a picture of God as our constant protector—guarding us from harm, shielding us from danger, watching over our journey from beginning to end. God’s keeping is not passive observation; it is active, loving protection. He watches over our steps as we walk through life’s mountains and valleys, through the known and the unknown.

The psalm also repeats the phrase “will not slumber.” It reminds us that unlike false gods who are powerless or asleep, our God is always awake, ever watchful and ever caring. Because God never slumbers nor sleeps, we can rest. Because He is awake, we can sleep in peace, trusting that He holds all things in His hands.

God’s protection is not limited by time or circumstance. The psalm says He watches over us “by day and by night,” “in our going out and coming in.” That means every part of our lives, our work, our rest, our transitions, our ordinary days. God does not promise a trouble-free life, but He promises His presence in every trouble, and His power to bring good out of what seems difficult or painful.

What comfort it is to know that the Creator of heaven and earth is our helper and friend. The One who commands the galaxies also cares deeply for you. He knows your fears, your weaknesses, and your unspoken burdens—and He is faithfully watching over you, now and forevermore.

As you take heart in this promise, may you also extend this same encouragement to others. Perhaps someone around you is walking through a quiet struggle. May your words, prayers, and presence help them lift their eyes again—to the One who never slumbers, who never leaves, and who never stops keeping His people.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you that You are my ever-present help and protector. Thank you that I am able to find strength, peace, and hope when I turn my eyes to You. Teach me to rest in Your care, to trust that You never sleep nor forget me. Please watch my coming and going today, and help me to point others to Your faithful and protective love. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.