Read Psalms 60 -- 66
In Today's Reading:
David's prayer for deliverance from his enemies; his confidence in God's promises; David's exhortation to praise God for His goodness
Because of Saul's relentless search and effort to kill him, David was forced to flee to a desolate area outside the promised land in exile from his home, his loved ones, and the physical comforts of the palace. It seemed to him like the end of the earth (Psalm 61:2).
David was overwhelmed with sorrow and loneliness, even as we would be. He prayed intensely asking God to hear his prayer. He confessed his distress but also his confidence in God as a rock that is higher than I. . . . a shelter . . . and a strong tower from the enemy (61:2-3). Although his desolate situation seemed like the end of the earth, David was confident that his true source of security from his enemies was the Living God Himself (see 61:4).
Making God our strong tower means recognizing that His followers are in the protective care of the invincible God. Depression and frustration need not exist in the life of one who believes that God is a strong tower in the face of evil forces. He has assured us that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). We have His assurance that no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly (Psalm 84:11). Like David, we can depend upon the Lord for protection and provision, regardless of how hopeless our circumstances may seem, since the Lord said, Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for Me? (Jeremiah 32:27). Jesus confirmed this, saying: With God all things are possible (Mark 10:27).
Although David's difficult circumstances remained the same for many years, he continued to express confidence in the Lord, saying: Truly my soul waiteth upon God. . . . He . . . is my rock and my salvation (Psalm 62:1-2), so I know I will never be overcome. David then turned his thoughts to others who faced trials and suffering, and continued to encourage all of us to trust in Him at all times . . . pour out your heart before Him: God is a Refuge for us (62:8). It is a comfort to know that everything we face in life is to better prepare us for eternity.
In the New Testament we are reminded that nothing shall separate us from the love of Christ (Romans 8:35). This includes all of our troubles, sorrows, suffering, persecution, misfortunes, or even death. In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Romans 8:37).
Christ Revealed:
As the Rock — the unmovable, eternal, unchanging Savior (Psalms 61:2; 62:2,6-7). Jesus is the Rock of our salvation and that spiritual Rock that followed them (I Corinthians 10:4).
Word Studies:
60:12 valiantly = great things; 61:4 covert = protecting power; 62:9 to be laid in the balance = they prove to be worthless; 63:5 marrow and fatness = the richest foods; 64:6 search out = devise; 64:8 their own tongue to fall upon themselves = their own words will bring them to ruin; 66:3 terrible = awesome.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Bible Pathway Faith Promise Supporters · the International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in memory of Mr. and Mrs. C. Allen · Government Officials: Rep. Todd Akin (MO), Rep. David Dreier (CA), Rep. Nita Lowey (NY), Rep. Robert Ney (OH), and Rep. Roger Wicker (MS) · Country: Iran (65 million) in southwestern Asia · Major languages: Farsi and Turki · Hostile to all Christian activity · 98% Muslim; .4% Christian · Prayer Suggestion: Thank God for sending the Holy Spirit (John 16:7-8).
Optional Reading: I Thessalonians 4
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 1:16