Devotion • May 22
Today's Scripture
Psalm 16
Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you.”
As for the holy ones in the land, they are the noble, in whom is all my delight.
Those who choose another god multiply their sorrows; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names upon my lips.
The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot.
The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; I have a goodly heritage.
I bless the Lord who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me.
I keep the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.
Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices; my body also rests secure.
For you do not give me up to Sheol, or let your faithful one see the Pit.
You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (NRSV)
Reflection
“Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge.”
I have to say, this was the exact psalm that I needed to hear today. The last couple of weeks have been filled with those sort of moments, the ones that are unexpectedly what you need. I have been dealing with some health problems, and I did take refuge in God during that time, and God blessed me with cards, hugs, phone calls from dear friends, extra support at home, and topped off the week with an absolutely stunning and uplifting choir concert at my daughter’s school. I truly am blessed even though there were times that I didn’t feel like I was, rather just beating down on myself and feeling miserable.
I’m sure we’ve all experienced rough patches just like I have. Even the most devoted follower of God is going to be faced with troubles at one time or another. The psalmist reminds us of the refuge, security, love, joy, and presence that God provides for us nonstop, twenty-four hours a day. We will not be shaken during these times, for we have our all-wise God leading us and protecting us in good times and bad. We are truly blessed people!
Prayer
God of refuge and strength, thank you for your constant love and presence that you provide us with every moment of every day. Help me to trust in you and your plans for my life and help me to remember to turn to you in times of the storm. I cannot do it without you. Amen.
Written by Briana Belding-Peck, Family Ministry Coordinator
Reflection © Fourth Presbyterian Church
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