[:en]SCRIPTURE: PSALM 61
“Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe” (Psalm 61:1-3)
“I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings. For you have heard my vows, O God; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name” (Psalm 61:4-5)
“Increase the days of the king’s life, his years for many generations. May he be enthroned in God’s presence forever; appoint your love and faithfulness to protect him” (Psalm 61:6-7)
David had bad life experiences. Saul was jealous of him and wanted to kill him. His enemies betrayed him and searched for him everywhere. His own son Absalom rebelled against him. So, David had to flee from Jerusalem and hide in many places. Out of all his experiences, he wrote Psalm 61. He cried out to the Lord asking him to listen to his prayer. He may be hiding in the wilderness but his true shelter was God, his rock. He found safety under God’s protection. He trusted in the shelter of God’s wings. He abided in the Lord, for God was his tabernacle. No wonder David ened with rejoicing: “So I will sing praise to your name forever, that I may daily fulfill my vows” (v. 8)
No matter where you are, God hears your prayer. No matter how depressed you are, God can lift you up. No matter how dangerous your situation is, God will preserve and protect you under the shadow of his wings. Find delight in prayer. He is your rock, your shelter, your strong tower and your tabernacle. Trust him to change things and people. He is your shepherd and you shall not want. Then express your praise to His strength and love.[:]