My Stronghold

1 Living in the Most High’s shelter,

camping in the Almighty’s shade,

2 I say to the LORD, “You are my refuge,

my stronghold!

You are my God—the one I trust!”

(Psalm 91:1–2)

Sheltered by God

Good Day Family,

I love this passage of scripture, because in times of struggle…of uncertainty…of vulnerability…this word consoles us, assures us, and challenges us. We’re reminded that God provides shelter when elements around us assail us and threaten our being. We’re reminded that God incorporated shade as well as sunshine.

Even good things can present bad possibilities when taken to the extreme. God’s creative work ensures balance to counter those extremes. We’re also reminded that we can trust God for all those reasons and more—just because God is God. There is also a challenge implicit in that. Because if God’s will protect and provide for us, why do we fear the unknown? If God is our refuge and stronghold, how can we exclude others from the beloved community we are called to create? If we trust God, why and how can we prioritize our allegiance to the leaders of this world over the Creator of all worlds?

I think most of us—myself included—have areas of our lives where we don’t fully trust God. That can manifest in attempts to control the uncontrollable. It can also be reflected in an overall dissatisfaction without making moves to improve our circumstances. It can keep us still when we should move or have us relentlessly busy when we need to rest.

The good news is that God can and will even shelter us from ourselves. There is a balm in Gilead. There is a balm available in us when we tap into it. Let the Most High lead the way.

Sheltering in God,

Be well,

Pastor Cheryl

Let us encourage one another. Let us love our neighbor. Let us be the church.