Courage #19

In You, O LORD, I put my trust; let me never be put to shame. Deliver me in Your righteousness, and cause me to escape; incline Your ear to me, and save me. Be my strong refuge, to which I may resort continually; you have given the commandment to save me, for You are my rock and my fortress. Hold me up, and I shall be safe, and I shall observe Your statutes continually. You reject all those who stray from Your statutes, for their deceit is falsehood. You put away all the wicked of the earth like dross; therefore I love Your testimonies. My flesh trembles for fear of You, and I am afraid of Your judgments. I have done justice and righteousness; do not leave me to my oppressors.

Psalms 71:1-3, 119:117-121 www.solascriptura.com

Father, we usually are not in an "escape" mode. We seldom feel trapped by our enemies. Yet, there is an enemy that seeks to entrap us, one who would rob us of our joy. Evil is in hot pursuit of us, daily. We are tempted in every way, it seems, every day.

We know Father, that if we do not call, You will not answer. You implore us to seek relief from temptation by placing our trust in You, by standing in the shadow of Your wings. You lift up and save the obedient. Help us to take comfort in the certainty and permanence of Your laws.

We do, in all humility and with all contrition, fear You, but it is a fear that turns to confidence in You as we obey You. Bless us, today, as we turn to You and thank You for being there when we do. We pray in Jesus' Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell