Morning Devotions: Psalm 57

...in the shadow of thy wings I will take refuge. Psalm 57:1b

Such pretty words, in the shadow of thy wings I will take refuge. In this second Mikhtam of David, a Psalm of things hidden to the physical eye, David is in a lot of trouble. He is among those who want to destroy him. They will try to take his life (my soul is among lions, vs 4) and if they cannot do that then they will say things about him to destroy his reputation (those who breath forth fire… their tongue is a sharp sword). As far as David’s enemies are concerned, he is a dead man (they dug a pit before me vs 6).

How does David respond? Like us, he cries out to the Almighty in prayer. In his experience, the LORD is his refuge, his hiding place. With eyes of faith David sees what is hidden to our physical eyes.

My heart is steadfast, oh God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises!

To be steadfast is to stand firm. This is the exact thing that the Apostle Paul reminds us to do in the dressing room where we put on the full armor of the Almighty! (Ephesians 6:10-20) Be steadfast, stand firm. Encouraging words.

Acts chapter 12 tells the story of Peter in prison, chained up between two guards. Outside of the prison was a cross with Peter’s name on it. You might think that Peter was up all night praying for mercy, but Peter knew the same secret that David knew. What you can see with your eyes is not what is going on in the world. Strangely enough, Peter slept so peacefully in prison that the Angel had to whack him in the side to wake him up. Peter was free even though men had already planned his death. 

The world is going crazy. Hate grows stronger day after day, but the encouragement is still the same. Be steadfast! Stand firm! The Almighty sees you with loving eyes. He will never leave you alone, keep your heart steadfast in truth and mercy (which is grace) ...under the shadow of His wings.

Stand firm beloved,
Mrs. Hagerty, January 7, 2016