Sometimes in life we encounter situations or challenges that make us afraid and tremble. We are overwhelmed with life-threatening dangers. These situations can occur for various reasons. It could be rejection, being misunderstood, uncertainty, illness, or even death. So it is important for us to practice appropriate responses in these situations. This time, by inviting us to reflect on the life of King David, the psalmist calls every believer to turn to God, the Source of Refuge.
The psalmist invites us to see that sometimes there are those who want destruction to happen in our lives. Like King David who was once in the stage of being surrounded by his enemies' desire for him to die. So to respond to this situation, the psalmist invites us to return to the foundation of our entire existence, namely God Himself. A believer's recognition of God guides his entire outlook on life. God is the light and fortress of the psalmist's life. He realized that the House of the Lord or His presence was what he longed for and desired. If the people of the world desire power, name, and wealth, then the psalmist invites us to be directed only towards His will.
From this essence of existence, we can be sure that God will always protect us. Even in severe calamity, God will hide His people in the tent of the Lord and lift them up onto the rock. Our source of strength ultimately comes from God alone. It is only on the basis of His mercy that we can overcome everything, even the enemies that stand in our way and seem invincible. So the psalmist directs his plea to God not to give him over to the passions of the opponents who have risen against him with false witnesses (v.12)
Friends of the Bible, through His word today we are actually invited to surrender again and ask for help from Him alone. There may be various situations that make us crushed and seem helpless, but all of them are insignificant in the presence of God who gives protection. So let us always cling to Him. Dwell in His presence and do not turn away from His commandments.
