Psalms 61
Psalms 61:1-8 (NLT)
1 For the choir director: A psalm of David, to be accompanied by stringed instruments. O God, listen to my cry! Hear my prayer!
2 From the ends of the earth, I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the towering rock of safety,
3 for you are my safe refuge, a fortress where my enemies cannot reach me.
4 Let me live forever in your sanctuary, safe beneath the shelter of your wings! Interlude
5 For you have heard my vows, O God. You have given me an inheritance reserved for those who fear your name.
6 Add many years to the life of the king! May his years span the generations!
7 May he reign under God’s protection forever. May your unfailing love and faithfulness watch over him.
8 Then I will sing praises to your name forever as I fulfill my vows each day.
When the heart is overwhelmed it would seem that its relief would be found in the removal of what is challenging it. Where there is an enemy, a sickness, or a loss, the remedy should be the destruction of the enemy, healing of the sickness, and provision of resources. As these things may bring temporary reprieve from the stress of the circumstance, there is still the remaining cause for their onset in the first place. It’s by going to the towering Rock of safety and redirecting attention to the presence of the Lord that the heart is truly provided with confidence and overcoming hope. It’s there in Him that all the other obvious culprits of anxiety are resolved, not just from a handout but with a transformation of perception in the revelation of identity with the Redeemer there. When settled securely under His wings, there is discovery of authority and position far above whatever may be threatening. It will be dealt with in a way that doesn’t just squelch a temporary attack but becomes the way of repelling its greatest efforts. The escape to the rock, then, doesn’t just shield from the threats but enables going out confidently to fulfill a kingdom mission for God’s glory.