He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me. (Ps. 144:2)
Expanded Passage: Psalm 144:1-4
Where I live in Canada, snowstorms occur five months of the year. Thus, I’ve endured my fair share of being stuck inside in the winter. I’ve grown to love the feeling of being cozied up warm and safe when on the other side of the window a gnarly storm rages on. I trust that my shelter will keep me protected from the elements and I can enjoy the day regardless of what is happening outside.
David’s psalm begins with praising God, his protector. Even though we seem insignificant in comparison to God, he chooses to care for us. David, who had defeated Goliath and was king over Israel, knew what it meant to trust God as his deliverer in the highs and lows of life.
It can be easy to worry about what is going on around us when it feels like everything is slipping out of control—whether that be anxiety, death, a rocky marriage, or hurt others have inflicted. We need to turn to the One who is our shelter and shield. Regardless of what the outcome is, we take our burdens to God, and we are no longer the only ones holding them. When there is a snowstorm, there is no better place to be than safe at home. Let’s take our burdens and turn to the safety of God today.
Bring your burdens to God; he is a safe refuge.
Shannon Fraser is a Kingswood University (NB) graduate who enjoys wedding photography and being involved in her local church. She resides with her husband in Canada.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
