Scripture:
Psalm 71:1?-?3 NIV
In you, Lord , I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame. In your righteousness, rescue me and deliver me; turn your ear to me and save me. Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go; give the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress.
Observation:
Plea
Protection
Praise
Plea – clearly the Author (I think David, but I’ve heard possibly Jeremiah) is in a rough place, seeking rescue. When I’m in a rough place I, too, plea. The challenge is, if I’m not careful, my plea will be to deaf ears or shallow things.
Protection – in a world that appears to socially and politically be getting worse and worse, it’s comforting to know we can plea and be protected through God. He is our refuge.
Praise – at the end of this chapter, the Author shifts from plea to praise. What’s cool is the praise comes before the protection is proven. The Author had faith!
When I’m struggling I have a plethora of sources to run to – I bet you do, too. Friends, family, or many worldly escapes – money, power, sex, drugs, booze, food, gossip, Facebook, religion, etc. These are all sources that may temporarily seem to help. But they will one day require a backup plan. However, I know my Lord is the only source who never requires backup. He’s the end all! He’s THE rescuer.
Application:
Faith. As Helen Keller said, when the outlook seems dim, try the uplook, He’s always bright! Faith in the Lord, during our plea and need for protection will allow immediate praise! How cool! Darkness can immediately become light, even with no apparent results. What other source offers this!?
Prayer:
Lord thank you for being our rock, our refuge. Thank you for giving a peace which surpasses all understanding. When there seems no reason for peace – there you are. This in itself increases my faith. I praise you Jesus. Amen
-James Smith