But You, Lord, Are A Shield Around Me

Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me!

Many are saying of me, “God will not deliver him.”

But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.

I call out to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy mountain.

I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me.

I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.

Arise, Lord! Deliver me, my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked.

From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people.

Psalm 3:1-8

As we continue trusting God through all our struggles with all types of physical and mental pain, even the simplest setback can feel like a fierce attacker. During these times, when our strength wanes and immediate relief evades us, running and hiding can seem like a good idea. But we can’t escape our pains. Learn to rely on God to carry you through.

When I need encouragement, comfort, and courage, prayerfully read through the songs of the psalmists, who honestly bring their situations to God.

David’s story is told. David lamented his painful situation, he trusted God’s protection and expected Him to answer his prayers. The king didn’t lose sleep worrying of fearing what could happen, because he trusted God to sustain and save him.

Physical and emotional pain can often feel like aggressive adversaries. We may be tempted to give up of wish we could escape when we’re weary and can’t see the end of our current battle. But, like David, we can learn to trust that God will hold us up and help us rest in His constant and loving presence.

God offers us peace as He holds us up and carries us through every trial.

Our Daily Bread – May 12, 2018