The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a place of safety in times of trouble. Those who know you, LORD, will trust you; you will not abandon anyone who comes to you.

Psalm 9:9-10

But to keep me from being puffed up with pride because of the many wonderful things I saw, I was given a painful physical ailment, which acts as Satan's messenger to beat me and keep me from being proud. Three times I prayed to the Lord about this and asked him to take it away. But his answer was: "My grace is all you need, for my power is greatest when you are weak." I am most happy, then, to be proud of my weaknesses, in order to feel the protection of Christ's power over me. I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and difficulties for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

2 Corinthians 12:7-10

Father, help us to have confidence. Help us to see that our enemies cannot touch us as long as You want us to remain safe.

God is stronger than our strongest foe. God's ultimate intention is that we will learn to live through periods of darkness, and to trust His Holy Word. We are secure in His provision, and with His grace, we need nothing more.

Our Daily Bread - February 19-20, 2002