Psalm 126 is about the return to Jerusalem after 70 years in captivity in Babylon. For those who returned it was like a wonderful dream (v1). The people were filled with laughter and joy (v2). The people of the nations saw the hand of God in this (v2b) and the people of God echoed this (v3).

This is like a picture of the joy of salvation as people are brought back into a relationship with the Lord. We see that one of the main purposes of salvation is to bring glory and honour to God.

Although there was great joy at the return to Jerusalem, those who returned faced a great challenge that the land had not been worked for 70 years and Jerusalem and the temple were a plie of rubble. This is why the people pray for God to act (v4. The south of Israel (Negeb) was a very dry region, and streams brought a very needed refreshment. The people are needing the river of the Spirit to persevere.

Likewise, when we’re saved, things are not all rosy, we still have to fight against sin, Satan and the world. The Psalm ends with a great promise (v5-6). This should encourage the Israelites and us to persevere in difficult days.