The Lord Protects

God Loves Us
God's Caring, Saving, and Upholding Love

God's Love as Victory over Death

Psalm 34:1-20  The Message

A David Psalm, When He Outwitted Abimelech and Got Away

God keeps an eye on his friends,
his ears pick up every moan and groan.
16 God won’t put up with rebels;
he’ll cull them from the pack.
17 Is anyone crying for help? God is listening,
ready to rescue you.
18 If your heart is broken, you’ll find God right there;
if you’re kicked in the gut, he’ll help you catch your breath.
19 Disciples so often get into trouble;
still, God is there every time.
20 He’s your bodyguard, shielding every bone;
not even a finger gets broken.

For Reflection

David has survived a dangerous experience with the Philistines in Gath.  David depended upon his fear of the Lord and trust in His goodness.  God did not come down and smite David's enemies.  David prayed for deliverance, and God blessed David with freedom from anxiety and creativity.  David rushed into danger and acted as though he was crazy.  Abimelech wanted no part of this lunatic and David escaped.

Davids fear (Respect) of God's power and sovereignty and his faith (Trust) in God saved him from capture and certain death. God intervened in protecting David in prayer, but God also blessed David with God's wit.  Do you have the strength of David?

Pray

Pray that you will trust in God even when the outcome seems to be uncertain.  Pray for the confidence to be obedient to God's will even though you may not understand.