The day after my brother’s tragic death, George had knee surgery. That night, I received an urgent call, “Your husband is unresponsive in ICU. Get here, now!” Gripped with fear, I jumped into my clothes, into the car, flying to the hospital, praying. After rigid COVID screening, convincing the security guard George was in a life-threatening situation, I ran to the elevator. There our daughter joined me. God had led her to be with me that night, calming me, following me to the hospital. Entering the ICU, George was alert, talking, saying he had a reaction to medication, had received life-saving treatment and answers to prayers.
David, this psalm’s author, may have written in thanksgiving for God’s protection and guidance when he was fleeing King Saul. God asked Samuel to anoint David king of Israel after Saul rejected God’s guidance. Unlike Saul, David followed God’s guidance, causing Saul’s hatred and desire to kill David. David fled, safe in God’s guidance and protection.
Events in our world often grip us with fear. Let’s be like David, asking for forgiveness, praying for, receiving God’s guidance and protection. “…the rush of mighty waters [of life’s trials] shall not reach them.” (verse 6)
Loving God, master over our fears, our hiding place, thank you for your protection. Amen. —