Protected

For the choir director: A psalm of David. I trust in the LORD for protection. So why do you say to me, "Fly like a bird to the mountains for safety! The wicked are stringing their bows and fitting their arrows on the bowstrings. They shoot from the shadows at those whose hearts are right. The foundations of law and order have collapsed. What can the righteous do?" (Psalms 11:1-3 NLT)

David has just been told by his best friend, Jonathan, that King Saul is out to kill him.  David hasn't done anything wrong to deserve this.  In fact, he has followed God quite well to this point.  Still Jonathan's father wants to kill David out of jealousy.

Have you ever felt alone and afraid?  Have you ever worried about what will happen to you?  Do you rely on a parent, friend, law enforcement, or military force to protect you?  David had none of these.  Everyone we would look to for protection was either turned against him or helpless to make any difference.  David was alone.  But he didn't feel alone.  He trusted that the LORD would protect him.

But the LORD is in His holy Temple; the LORD still rules from heaven. He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth. The LORD examines both the righteous and the wicked. He hates those who love violence. He will rain down blazing coals and burning sulfur on the wicked, punishing them with scorching winds. (Psalms 11:4-6 NLT)

Sometimes I need to remind myself that there is more to this world than just this world.  There is a spiritual realm that I do not see, but is a part of my reality every day.  God has reached into our world before and He certainly can do it again.  At very least, when the final judgement comes I will see Him face to face.  The only question is this:  Will I face Him as an enemy or as a friend?  The answer to that question will determine my experience with God, now and forever.

For the righteous LORD loves justice. The virtuous will see His face. (Psalms 11:7 NLT)

Father, I know you are the Great Protector.  Thank you for protecting me from my enemies.  

Help me to be virtuous so we will both find joy when I see Your face.  

In Your Son's Name I pray, Amen.