One of the most popular movies of all time is The Sound of Music. Toward the end there is a dramatic scene where the von Trapp family is trying to flee from danger. They are being pursued by the sinister authorities.

Maria von Trapp is played by Julie Andrews. She speaks briefly with the Reverend Mother (a nun) who reassures her that as they flee they will not be alone. She then says: “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.” 

In doing this she alludes to the hill country around them. The safety of Switzerland is on the other side. But she is also quoting verse 1 of Psalm 121.

Here’s what struck me about what the Reverend Mother said to Maria. She drew from her knowledge of the Bible to help her interpret what was happening in their current right-then-and-there situation. While it is true that Psalm 121 had its own original context and meaning for people thousands of years ago—like those heading to Jerusalem to worship at an ancient festival—it is also true that it continues to speak to us today. The Reverend Mother knew that. The von Trapps could flee into the hills to escape danger knowing that God would help them.

God continues to speak to his people today. And he does so through the Bible.

As I say this, I want to acknowledge that we often need to do some research and study to determine what a passage may (or may not) be saying to us. A wise and faithful mentor or teacher can also be a great help when we’re confused or uncertain. But when we go to the Scriptures with a spirit of humility, faith, prayer and discernment, we should also be ready to hear from the Lord.

Let me offer a quick personal example. Recently I had to make a decision. In my daily Bible reading I came across John 12:43: “they loved human praise more than praise from God.” It made me pause and ask: “Is my decision genuinely centred on a desire to please God”? It was what I needed to move forward with more confidence.

As you read the Bible, don’t let the chronological distance between you and the text result in a spiritual distance between the text and your mind.  

God continues to speak to his people today. Are you listening?

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Notes:

–“God helps those who… ask for help.” Sermon on Psalm 121. Click here.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV, except Psalm 121:1 which is from the KJV.