Tag: Safety

Devotionals

Who Are You Waiting For?      

Loring Schultz

Read: Isaiah 30:12-17 NLT – This is the reply of the Holy One of – Bible Gateway

“Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.” Isaiah 30:15 NLT

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What troubles you? Where do you go and to whom do you go to get relief from your troubles? Hezekiah, king of Judah, was seeking an alliance with the forces of Egypt in their trouble with the invading Assyrian army. They apparently forgot about God in the midst of their troubles. The powerful Egyptian army looked like the best option with their swift horses to help them escape the approaching danger. But the Lord reminded them,  “Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved.” (Is.30:15 nlt)

Judah was resting in the strength and material sources of their current world system to relieve them of their troubles. They trusted in a foreign government who had no allegiance to the God of heaven. Judah was willing to join themselves to a godless nation for safety rather than to trust in the Lord their God. The Lord warned them it would not work, but they did not want to hear it.

How many times have you chosen the remedies of the world before going to the Lord for what troubles you?  Worse yet, how many times have you been given counsel in the things of the Lord, but as King Hezekiah, you ignored it. The Lord God knows each of us intimately which means He knows exactly what it is that troubles us and how to solve the issue. Returning to the Lord and resting in Him is our only sure way to safety. So, who or what are you waiting for? The Egyptians may have fast horses, but your troubles may be indeed faster, our world may have some answers, but only God knows how to meet your need in times of trouble. It’s time to trust Him in quietness and confidence.

Devotionals

Safety in the House of God

Loring Schultz

“But I am like an olive tree, thriving in the house of God. I will always trust in God’s unfailing love.” Psalm 52:8 NLT

Photo by Rafael Albaladejo on Pexels.com

Churches across the globe have been considered sacred places of refuge for centuries. Most notable in times of war, churches were shelters for all who entered through their doors whosever side they were on. Sanctury churches today have a much more complicated task within the twists and turns of world culture. But the mission remains the same, to protect by providing refuge in the house of God.

When David was on the run from King Saul who was in pursuit to kill him, David penned Psalm 52. David describes the wickedness of his enemies and God’s judgement on them as he rests safely in God’s protection. David writes, “But I am like an olive tree, thriving in the house of God. I will always trust in God’s unfailing love.” (Ps.52:8 nlt) Olive trees live a span of hundreds of years. David is putting his trust in the lasting mercy of God for protection. Olive trees also represent prosperity. Being in God’s presence (house of God) David would not only find safety but will grow in his knowledge of Him. David is filled with praise in the sanctuary of God, “I will praise you forever, O God, for what you have done. I will trust in your good name in the presence of your faithful people.” (Ps.52:9 nlt)

Psalm 52 is a picture of the reality of evil around us, but also of the justice of God in protecting His children while administrating judgment on the wicked of our day. Christians should take comfort that we are in the house of God, our place of refuge through the Holy Spirit, and are safe as we thrive in His presence praising Him!

Read: Psalm 52 NLT – Psalm 52 – For the choir director: A – Bible Gateway