Intro: Everyday the Word of God helps me look at my life with a greater sense of gratitude of who God has been, is currently being, and will always be in my life. Whether or not I waiver between fear and faith, God is there to reassure me of his love and continued care. My soul responds to his unending love. Whether or not I find myself filled with joy or tears, God is there to comfort me and help me to persevere in faith. My soul responds to his perfect peace. Whether or not I understand the need for each spiritual battle, God is there to bring me grace, as well as be my strength. My soul overflows with eternal hope. I have never experienced such enduring faithfulness, so, I praise him with my whole being!
In our passage today, David also understands the power of God’s Word to be his encouragement, to bring understanding, to be the refuge for his faith, and to take care of him in the midst of fear. Our humanity is going to experience the temptation to fear, but we do not have to yield to its destructive power. When we know God is with us, we understand he has the upper hand in all things. Nothing formed against us can prosper; God’s Word has the final say (Isa 54:17). Our responsibility is to remain in him—to remain faithful to his Word. David sets aside the fear that is trying to rob him, by focusing on the Truth that abides within him. May we live each day knowing God is there to help us be victorious in his righteous and mighty hands.
Psalm 56:8-13 (TPT)
8
You’ve kept track of all my wandering and my weeping.
You’ve stored my many tears in your bottle—not one will be lost.
For they are all recorded in your book of remembrance.
9
The very moment I call to you for a father’s help
the tide of battle turns and my enemies flee.
This one thing I know: God is on my side!
10
I trust in the Lord. And I praise him!
I trust in the Word of God. And I praise him!
11
What harm could man do to me?
With God on my side, I will not be afraid of what comes.
My heart overflows with praise to God and for his promises.
I will always trust in him.
12
So I’m thanking you with all my heart,
with gratitude for all you’ve done.
I will do everything I’ve promised you, Lord.
13
For you have saved my soul from death
and my feet from stumbling
so that I can walk before the Lord
bathed in his life-giving light.
Prayer: Lord, so many people in our world are struggling with the overwhelming cares of life, the intense challenges of relationships, and the looming fear of danger or death. However, you are there to lovingly lift your children’s heads toward your powerful presence and provision. I praise you, Lord, because you cause me to turn toward you in my weakness in order to move me forward in your strength. How beautiful is your love and help for your children. May all believers be a source of hope, comfort, love, and support to those who are struggling and point them toward life with you. Above all, turning toward you is humanity’s greatest need, today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.