You are my hiding place and my shield;
I hope in your word.
Psalm 119:114 (ESV)
Series Focus: “Let There Be Light”
Battles. We all fight them. They come in different lengths and intensity, and some seem to never end. We’ve been told to choose them wisely, but sometimes we don’t have a choice. Even Scripture calls us to fight the good fight and run with endurance the race that is set before us. When the enemy is coming full force—from what seems like out of nowhere—and we aren’t prepared, how can we resist being pulled toward the darkness or defeat?
For the past several months, someone very close to me has been battling complicated health issues. She’s followed all the doctors’ orders, and yet, pain and unanswered questions still surround her. She’s a strong lady, and I have no doubt she’s giving the enemy a run for his money, but the fatigue and uncertainty weigh her down. What do you do when discomfort or chronic chaos seems to consume you? How do you hold up in the middle of a situation you cannot control or predict? It would be so easy to give up!
God’s Word holds many examples of how we can feel safe and protected and even victorious in these tough situations. Let’s start in Psalm 18 and listen to King David’s words in verses 28-30:
For it is you who light my lamp; the Lord my God lightens my darkness. For by you I can run against a troop, and by my God I can leap over a wall. This God—his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him. (Psalm 18:28-30 ESV)
David tells us God ignites his very soul—lights his lamp—and his strength is renewed! His place of safety is with God alone. God’s Word is true and holds immense power to protect and provide a safe haven for all who seek refuge in Him. He truly is our hidden place of shelter.
You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. (Psalm 32:7 ESV)
David was delivered time and time again from enemies seeking to destroy him. But God! God was his Deliverer, his Shield and his Safety. In Psalm 18, David also proclaims:
With the merciful you show yourself merciful; with the blameless man you show yourself blameless; with the purified you show yourself pure; and with the crooked you make yourself seem tortuous. For you save a humble people, but the haughty eyes you bring down. (Psalm 18:25-27 ESV)
Does this beautiful truth bring you hope? As believers we have the light of God illuminating our very souls. It is His truth, His love, and His grace we have access to. He is always with us, and when we shine—it is because He is in us—we cannot shine apart from Him! This Light is a place we can cling to, a place to hide when we seek safety and a place that empowers us to share Jesus with others.
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. (Psalm 46:1-3 ESV)
Sisters, receive Christ, let Him light your lamp. Immerse yourself in His good and perfect Word. Walk in confidence that He holds you close. And as you dwell in Him, let light and hope prevail!
Holding Fast to Hope,
Jen
Scripture References: Psalm 119:114, 32:7, 18:25-30, 46:1-2, 91:2; 2 Samuel 22:33; 2 Timothy 4:7; Hebrews 12:1; Philippians 4:19
