Even though I've been alive for almost 4 decades, I've never met anyone who was obsessed with killing me. I've been a part of soccer teams and college rivalries, but not once did I face down another group whose main goal was anihilating me and my friends. So, sometimes it's hard to relate with the psalms- especially since that seemed to be a large part of their experience.David had to deal with people who hated him and wanted to kill him, Israel was regularly threatened by large armies bent on their complete destruction. But what I've been grateful for this last month is that we've been able to look at the way God sought to reassure His people when they were oppressed, discouraged, jealous, fearful, and guilty. And through it all (using a variety of different pictures), God always called for Israel's trust because He was their refuge.
When I consider how frequently in life I am feeling weak or weary or envious or afraid or condemned... it's reassuring to know that nowhere else in life will I find a place of safety for my soul other than in God Himself. He wants to me remember that He is my Shield... He is my Stream, He is my Portion, He is my Fortress, He is my Shelter. And when I find Him to be a refuge to my soul and when I actively place my faith in Him, He alone receives all the glory.
Over these last 5 weeks, we received the "Take It Home" sheets for follow-up. So, here they are online- sorry for the delay in getting them out to you! (Click the link below to find the PDF)...
- Ps 115- "A Shield to the Weak"
- Ps 42/43- "A Stream to the Weary"
- Ps 73- "A Portion to the Envious"
- Ps 46- "A Fortress to the Fearful"
- Ps 32- "A Shelter to the Guilty"
Have a great week!
Darren
