Lift Up Your Eyes

Lebanon

The Psalmist writes in verse 1 of Psalm 121, I will lift up my eyes to the hills from whence cometh my help.  I'm sure in his mind's eye were the mountains of Israel of which there are many.  One of the special mountains in my estimation is Mount Bental in the Golan Heights located in the northeastern corner of Israel.  It is one of the highest points in the area and the view is spectacular.  You can see Lebanon to the northwest, Syria to the northeast, and the northern Galilee area to the south.  There is an old military bunker located there along with tunnels and security fencing.   It also has a lodge which has a gift shop and serves meals, desserts and coffees.

Syria towards Damascus

The site provides a prime spot to talk about the 1967 war and the retaking of this strategic location as well as the rest of the Golan Heights.  Mount Bental is very near the Syrian border and only about 36 miles from Damascus.  Just below the hill toward Mount Hermon is a valley called the Valley of Tears where one of the largest tank battles in history took place during the war.  Syrian forces invaded Israel with 1500 tanks and 1000 artillery pieces compared to Israel's 160 tanks and 60 artillery pieces which seemed insurmountable odds.  But, at the end of the battle the Syrians were in retreat and the Israeli forces were the victors.  This stunning victory was a miracle to be sure, but why should anyone be surprised.  The Psalmist in verse two of Psalm 121 goes on to say, My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.  God was there on the mountains that day fighting on behalf of His people.
 
God is still fighting on behalf of His people.  He still calls us to lift up our eyes to the hills.  Our help comes from Him.  No matter where you find yourself today, He is calling you to look up.  The hills are towering and they are imposing to our view, but the Maker of those hills is greater than the largest mountain.  Remember, His plans for you are for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.  Trust in Him today!