Joyful Security

Our world is subject to constant mutation. Change can be difficult to handle, particularly when its outcome is as yet unknown or uncertain. The result is often a deep sense of insecurity, robbing us of peace in the present and causing our hearts to fear for the future. This is what many in contemporary society have been experiencing since the financial crisis of 2008, which affected many lives so profoundly. Times like these are when we most need a sure refuge, someone or something to run to, a shelter from life’s storms.

For the psalmist David, that refuge is the Lord (1,8), faith in whom endues him with great peace and delight. David’s delight is in God himself (2,5), in God’s people (3), in God’s truth (4,7) and in God’s provision (6). His sense of joyful security in the Lord extends beyond this life to eternity (8-11), for even death will not deprive him of fellowship with the one in whom he finds shelter.

Both Peter (Acts 2:24-32) and Paul (Acts 13:35) quote from verses 8-11 with reference to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The ideals expressed by David in this Messianic psalm, then, are most fully realized in the life of “great David’s greater Son” (J Montgomery). Death could not keep its hold on him. He was raised from the dead by his heavenly Father, the very same God in whom David found refuge. What peace and security Christians have in the knowledge that, with David, we can say to our heavenly Father, “you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand” (11) in the new Jerusalem (Rev. 21:2). All this comes through faith in his risen Son, our Brother.

David had a glimpse of the future (9-11). Read Isaiah 65:17-25 and Revelation 21:1-5 for a fuller picture. Do you know someone who needs encouragement today?