1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.[a]
2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”
14 “Because he[b] loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;
I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
15 He will call on me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honor him.
16 With long life I will satisfy him
and show him my salvation.”
Living in relationship with God is an exercise in imbalance. We are human, He is divine. We are flesh and blood while He is spirit. We are incomplete, and He is perfect. While some see this relationship as supernatural, others see it as the most natural condition for both God and humans. God created us for relationship – with each other and with Him.
We call upon God. We acknowledge who God is and what he has done throughout history. We extend our trust to God.
How does God respond to our exercise of faith?
God rescues us in our time of need. God delivers us from danger and death. God honors us by elevating us into relationship with him. He saves us. He secures us. He delivers us and honors us.
In addition, God protects us. A fortress is a military stronghold, especially a fortified city with thick walls and sturdy, robust gates. A fortress provides a military advantage, but it is also a refuge from the dire consequences of armed conflict. Under God’s protection, we find help in our times of trouble. God hears us and answers our prayers.
God promises a long life for those who call out to him for help. Ultimately, thanks to the Easter miracle, God offers us eternal life. When we dwell with Him, even in this earthly realm, we find rest.
Do you need shelter? Do you need rest? Will you call out to God? Will you testify to His trustworthiness?
Perhaps you can relate to these words from the chorus of Zach Williams’ song, “Rescue Story:”
Oh, You were the voice in the desert
Calling me out in the dead of night
Fighting my battles for me
You are my rescue story
Lifted me up from the ashes
Carried my soul from death to life
Bringing me from glory to glory
‘Cause You are my rescue story
Author: Bryan Merrill
Other Lenten readings for today:
- Exodus 5:10-23
- Acts 7:30-34
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