1 I’ve taken refuge in you, Lord.
Don’t let me ever be put to shame!
2 Deliver me and rescue me by your righteousness!
Bend your ear toward me and save me!
3 Be my rock of refuge
where I can always escape.
You commanded that my life be saved
because you are my rock and my fortress.
4 My God, rescue me from the power of the wicked;
rescue me from the grip of the wrongdoer and the oppressor
5 because you are my hope, Lord.
You, Lord, are the one I’ve trusted since childhood.
6 I’ve depended on you from birth—
you cut the cord when I came from my mother’s womb.
My praise is always about you.
7 I’ve become an example to many people
because you are my strong refuge.
Reflection
When you were a kid and were having a bad, stressful day, where did you flee? Every young person (and every older person, for that matter!) needs to have a safe space to be alone with their thoughts. What was that place for you?
For me, it was a creek (though PA, it’s a crick) that ran on the hill up above our house. It was a beautiful little spot in the woods where I spent countless hours – with friends, yes, but also frequently by myself. It was a refuge that felt safe when things seemed confusing or difficult.
The psalmist describes God as a refuge, a place where he (she?) can flee for safety. That’s literally the meaning of refuge – a place you can flee to again and again.
God never tires of us. We never wear out our welcome. We never knock on the door and find it locked. We can take refuge in God again and again. From our birth, God is for us. And in our death, God is with us. God is our refuge. We need not be afraid.
By Joe Monahan
For Pondering & Prayer
When have you taken refuge in God? How did God’s care during those times become evident to you?
Prayer: Help us look to you for refuge in times of uncertainty, pain, and fear. Even in our worst moments, Lord, grant us the safety and peace we need in order to make choices that glorify you and witness to your goodness. In the name of Jesus, amen.
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