시편 Chapter 126

Translation: ESV

1

When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream.

Key Message

God's restoration is so astonishing that one cannot tell if it is a dream or reality—this is the character of grace.

▸Here is Israel's experience of returning from Babylonian exile.

Here is Israel's experience of returning from Babylonian exile. The expression 'we were like those who dream' describes an experience so astonishing and unbelievable that one cannot tell if it is reality or a dream. God's salvation is often more wonderful than we could have imagined.

Related Verses

In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia.
2

Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them."

Key Message

The joy of salvation overflows into irrepressible laughter and praise, and becomes a witness to God among the nations.

▸The joy of salvation bursts forth in laughter and praise.

5

Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!

Key Message

Present suffering of sowing in tears will certainly lead to a harvest of joy—this is God's promise.

▸This verse, that sowing in tears leads to a harvest of joy, is one of the most beautiful and comforting promises of reversal in Scripture.

6

He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.

Key Message

God's certain promise that one who goes out in tears shall surely return with joy is the hope in suffering.

▸'Shall come home' is the certainty at the heart of this promise.