19 How abundant are the good things
that you have stored up for those who fear you,
that you bestow in the sight of all,
on those who take refuge in you.
20 In the shelter of your presence you hide them
from all human intrigues;
you keep them safe in your dwelling
from accusing tongues.21 Praise be to the Lord,
for he showed me the wonders of his love
when I was in a city under siege.
22 In my alarm I said,
I am cut off from your sight!
Yet you heard my cry for mercy
when I called to you for help.23 Love the Lord, all his faithful people!
Psalms 31:19-24
The Lord preserves those who are true to him,
but the proud he pays back in full.
24 Be strong and take heart,
all you who hope in the Lord.
Key verses:
“How great is your goodness which you have stored up for those who fear you. Which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you.” verse 19
“praise be to the Lord, for he showed me the wonders of his love when I was in a besieged city.” verse 21
God’s love is truly sustaining. God shelters his goodness and keeps it hidden (v20). Yet, he opens it to those who fear him. This passage does not seem to indicate any physical assurance, safety from persecution or trouble. Instead, it indicates an attitude within the heart. An attitude of fear, devotion, praise, refuge, hope, and sustainability. An attitude that God will see him through. David received love from the Lord when he was besieged. In fact, it was not after or before but during an attack. David felt security in God when there was none in the real world. It is at this very point that the Lord promises to preserve those who are true to him. In this we can take heart. During the dark times and the onslaught is when we can count on God. In Acts it was Stephen who saw heaven open up while he was being stoned. He felt this same security at that very moment despite the physical pain. It is true God does also promise us a good life and prosperity but these are all in season. I believe there are seasons for every Christian. If you are in a season of trouble you can be assured the season will change. “Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.” v24
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