REJOICING IN GOD, MY REFUGE
Opening Worship: “Glorious Ruins” (Hillsong Worship) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qgMV3_Md8MU
“But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy, and spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may exult in you. For you bless the righteous, O LORD; you cover him with favor as with a shield.” — Psalm 5:11-12
“Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by. I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me. He will send from heaven and save me; he will put to shame him who tramples on me. … God will send out his steadfast love and his faithfulness! … Awake, my glory! Awake, O harp and lyre! I will awake the dawn! I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations. For your steadfast love is great to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth!” — Psalm 57:1-3, 8-11
“But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.” — Psalm 59:16 (NIV)
In the book of Psalms, the authors express their true feelings with honesty and openness. David wrote about his cries for help, hiding from his enemies, and waiting for the storms of destruction to pass him by. The Scriptures today focus on David’s songs of joy and praise, giving thanks for God’s faithfulness, strength, and love. David delighted in the Lord as he worshipped Him through his singing and rejoicing.
Prayer Prompt: As you begin your prayer time, read the Scriptures aloud, and reflect on times in your life when the Lord has been a refuge and deliverer in storms. Give God praise for being your strength and refuge in any circumstances that are filled with disappointment and sadness. Delight yourself in the Lord by praising Him for who He is and all that He has done for you. Be still in His presence, and let Him rejoice over you with gladness, quiet you by His love, and exult over you with loud singing! As you are still before the Lord, reflect on the fact that the God of the universe is singing over you – how incredible is that!
Additional Scripture: 2 Samuel 22:29-33, Psalm 18:1-2, Zephaniah 3:17
Journal: Take a few moments to reflect on and note what God is showing you through His Word about Himself and how it applies to you.