Show Don't Tell: Psalm 124

Imagine standing at the edge of a turbulent river, the sun hidden behind dark, swirling clouds that threaten to unleash a storm. This was the setting that David evokes in Psalm 124 as he reflects on the perilous moments when Israel faced destruction. “If the LORD had not been on our side—let Israel say—if the LORD had not been on our side when people attacked us…” Picture the Israelites, their hearts pounding like war drums, surrounded by enemies, their faces twisted with rage, their voices a cacophony of threats and curses.

David paints a vivid image: “They would have swallowed us alive.” The metaphor of a ferocious monster rises before us—imagine a great beast with gaping jaws, ready to consume those who dared to oppose it.

Then, the imagery shifts to water—“the flood would have engulfed us, the torrent would have swept over us, the raging waters would have swept us away.” Feel the icy grip of despair as the floodwaters rise, drowning cries for help in their deafening roar.

But amid this chaos, there’s a sudden shift—a glimmer of hope. “Praise be to the LORD, who has not let us be torn by their teeth.” The monster’s jaws snap shut, missing their target.