Psalm 121 is the second of the Psalms of Ascents. In this psalm, the idea of ascending is evident through the repetition and expansion of certain words and concepts. The psalm begins with a question about where help comes from, which is then answered and expanded upon, stating that help comes from the Lord, who does not sleep. The theme of sun and shade is introduced and further developed in subsequent verses. The concept of preservation is emphasized, appearing three times in the last two verses, culminating in the assurance of eternal preservation by God. This pattern of statement followed by expansion illustrates the theme of ascending or going up in stages, as seen in the structure of the psalm.

Psalm 121:1-8 covers multiple aspects of God's providence. It states, "I will lift up my eyes to the hills from whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore." These verses make it clear that God is intimately concerned and involved in each individual's life.

As we fight our personal battles, we are reminded not to let fear control our lives. God commands us to be strong and brave, assuring us of His presence and help wherever we go. Fear denies God's promises and rejects His assurance, yet we must cultivate the right kind of fear, one that motivates us to build an intimate relationship with Him. Through study, meditation, prayer, and fasting, we deepen our faith in God, His Word, and His love for us. This faith becomes the key to conquering the sin of fear, transforming it from a curse into a step toward strength and bravery.