Up to the hills I lift my eyes
Psalm 121

Both as a boy taking care of his father's sheep, and later when he was fleeing from King Saul as a a hunted fugitive, with no hiking gear, emergency supplies or even torch-light for the dark nights, David must have learnt through all sorts of experiences that he could rely on God and no-one else for unfailing help. I understand that the reason why many believe he was this psalm's author is because of his unique life-story. He was well equipped to lead other pilgrims in praise and expectation as they journeyed to Jerusalem to attend a temple-feast, encouraging them to trust in God as they picked their way up steep slopes and rockk faces, on overgrown tracks where thorns and snares and wild animals made the going hazardous, the perilous risks increased by torrential rain and gale-force winds. The "Psalms of Ascent" (Psalms 120-134) cheered them and kept them focused as they neared their long-anticipated destination. Even though our feet may slip at times, we are assured - in passages like Deuteronomy 33:27 and Psalm 37:23-24 - that the Lord we worship is our eternal refuge, who holds our hand through the fiercest trials - our living help all the way to Heaven.

Gill Berry composed ERYRI in 1990, the name evoking the beautiful mountain scenery of Snowdonia in Wales. Sheet music, instrumental parts and other resources can be found at Praise! No. 1034: Up to the hills I lift my eyes 

The verses were originally set to ALMSGIVING and are published with that setting at Jubilate: Up to the hills I lift my eyes