Life Long Protection

Tradition and Wisdom
Teaching and Learning:
From Generation to Generation

Psalm 91:9-16

The Message

   You who sit down in the High God's presence, spend the night in Shaddai's shadow,
   Say this: "God, you're my refuge.
      I trust in you and I'm safe!"
   That's right—he rescues you from hidden traps,
      shields you from deadly hazards.
   His huge outstretched arms protect you—
      under them you're perfectly safe;
      his arms fend off all harm.
   Fear nothing—not wild wolves in the night,
      not flying arrows in the day,
   Not disease that prowls through the darkness,
      not disaster that erupts at high noon.
   Even though others succumb all around,
      drop like flies right and left,
      no harm will even graze you.
   You'll stand untouched, watch it all from a distance,
      watch the wicked turn into corpses.
   Yes, because God's your refuge,
      the High God your very own home,
   Evil can't get close to you,
      harm can't get through the door.
   He ordered his angels
      to guard you wherever you go.
   If you stumble, they'll catch you;
      their job is to keep you from falling.
   You'll walk unharmed among lions and snakes,
      and kick young lions and serpents from the path.

 ^14-16 "If you'll hold on to me for dear life," says God,
      "I'll get you out of any trouble.
   I'll give you the best of care
      if you'll only get to know and trust me.
   Call me and I'll answer, be at your side in bad times;
      I'll rescue you, then throw you a party.
   I'll give you a long life,
I'll give you a long drink of salvation!

For Reflection
Such are the promises of God.  In the face of all of our world's current troubles, political injustice, economic weakness, social persecution, and personal woes, God sends a clear message.  God is your refuge.  Avoid the seduction of our temporal worries, God is protecting those of you who believe in Him.  In Christ lies the truth.  Even Death has lost its sting. Take a long drink of salvation and be comforted living in the hollow of God's hand.

Pray
for the trust that surpasses all trust. Give thanks for the shield that is stronger than all shields.  Praise God for the angels who guard. Pray for the courage to act as though you have no fear.  Pray that you remain righteous while surrounded with seductive terrors.