A mountain is no small thing.
While that sounds like it’s straight out of the mouth of Captain Obvious, there might be more truth to it than meets the eye (or ear). Although we do hear about small mountains, even those are substantial in terms of size—just try climbing one! But mountains are big in ways beyond their size. They are a significant part of the landscape and ecosystem. They influence weather conditions and are an important part of the water cycle. About 70% of our water comes from mountains.
In ancient times, mountains were especially important from a military perspective. They offered excellent locations for an outpost or fort because they provided a clear view of anyone approaching and any attack against them meant fighting uphill—not an easy thing to do. Finally, the mountains reminded the pilgrims of their destination in Jerusalem and God’s special presence there (“I will lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth’ -Psalm 121:1-2). So, a mountain was no small thing and the mountains connected with Jerusalem were a silent but strong reminder of Yahweh.
Mountains play a central role in Psalm 125. They speak of the pilgrims’ stability as followers of Yahweh. No matter what opposition they might face in this world, “Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever” – v. 1. Mountains were created by God and only He can remove them. Like Mount Zion, the believer has been established by God and possesses solidity in Him.
From Mount Zion, the psalmist moves to other mountains in the vicinity of Jerusalem. These would be The Mount of Olives, Mt. Moriah, and a few others. As these mountains surround Jerusalem and buffer the city, so God surrounds His people and is their security (v. 2).
Surrounded, stable and secure. You don’t want to leave home without it—then or now.
A Taste of Grace with Bruce Green 