“Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of Your wings until the disaster has passed.” Psalm 57:1 NIV

R is for Refuge

Refuge—shelter or protection from danger, trouble, etc.

Anything to which one has recourse for aid, relief, or escape

Where do you go to find refuge from disaster when it feels and looks like evil is persuing you, setting a net for your feet, lying about you? Do you run to drugs, alcohol, bad relationships, food, or a host of other earthly things? David ran to God for refuge and so can you and I.

So once you’ve run to God for refuge, what do you do next? Psalm 57 continues and gives us an answer:

“I cry out to God Most High, to God, who vindicates me. He sends from heaven and saves me, rebuking those who hotly pursue me…Selah” (vs. 2-3a).

“My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music. Awake, my soul! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn. I will praise You, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of You among the peoples. For great is Your love, reaching to the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let Your glory be over all the earth.” (vs. 7-11).

So on those “disastrous” days, cry out to God. Take refuge in Him. Begin to sing and make music. Give God praise. Make sure your heart is steadfast. And then God will do this:

“God sends forth His love and His faithfulness” (vs. 3b).

Heavenly Father, thank You for being our refuge when our days are disastrous. Teach us how to sing, make music and praise You in the middle of the storm. Help our hearts to be steadfast. Thank You for Your love and faithfulness to us. In Jesus’ name, amen.