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Psalm 125:1-2
I love these Psalms of ascent, which the pilgrims used as they travelled to Jerusalem. In this particular psalm, we almost get the feeling that we are travelling with them as they gazed at the mountains around Jerusalem. Even the mountains themselves spoke to them of the security they had in God. I don’t find it surprising that Christians throughout the centuries have found pilgrimages helpful as a way of encouraging them to focus on God.
The psalmists were always incredibly honest about the threats of life, which seemed to come from all sides. There never seemed to be a shortage of enemies and there were also internal threats and doubts. But the psalmists were confident of their God and, time and again, they spoke about God as their rock, fortress and high tower. The threats might be real and scary, but God could always be relied upon to be much stronger.
I am often struck by the speed with which people’s lives can change. It might be a heart attack, a road accident, a business collapse or the breakdown of a relationship. However strong one might be, such challenges are shaking moments. They test whether our foundations are secure or not. The psalmists’ world would have looked completely different from our own, and yet we share a similar need to be secure. We need to know that when the worst happens, God will still be by our side.
As we thank God for the security that we have in him, this would be a good moment to pray for those around us who do not know this security for themselves. Let’s pray that our life as well as our words will speak of the God who gives us security as we go into today.
QUESTION
In what ways does God’s security bless your life?
PRAYER
Lord God, I thank you that you are my rock and that I can always be confident in you however tough life might be. Amen
Released on 6 Feb 2023
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