Focus

Close your eyes and open yourself as you relax into a peaceful state. Be willing to expose yourself for who you are as God created you to be. Breathe deeply as you prepare to hear God’s Word.

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Read

Psalm 31:1-5 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)

To the leader. A Psalm of David.

In you, O Lord, I seek refuge;
do not let me ever be put to shame;
in your righteousness deliver me.

Incline your ear to me;
rescue me speedily.
Be a rock of refuge for me,
a strong fortress to save me.

You are indeed my rock and my fortress;
for your name’s sake lead me and guide me,

take me out of the net that is hidden for me,
for you are my refuge.

Into your hand I commit my spirit;
you have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God.

My times are in your hand;
deliver me from the hand of my enemies and persecutors.

Let your face shine upon your servant;
save me in your steadfast love.

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Reflect

I once got lost in the desert in Tucson, Arizona. It was terrifying. One winter, a couple of friends and myself went on a cycling trip around Tucson to escape from the cold Tennessee weather. We had our routes planned for a few rides. However, on the final ride, we made some wrong turns. As the sun started to set, we lost our dirt road and found ourselves riding through sand. Since we had been riding all day, we were out of fuel and hydration. Though, all three of us were panicking a little, I found myself a little calmer than the others. My thoughts were focused on God’s presence. And, something told me that I would live to tell the story of how the Lord led a lost Tennessee boy out of the desert of Tucson, Arizona.

We often find ourselves in situations that have no certain outcome. Those situations are frightening. How should the believer handle those circumstances? I don’t think there is one particular formula for dealing with fear. Fear impacts people differently. But, for the believer, there is one approach that engenders comfort: believing in God’s deliverance.

When you suffer from a situation the causes fear, doubt, or uncertainty, ask God to give you comfort. Ask God to relieve you from the burden of emotion the creates an imbalance in your life. And, when you ask God for that relief, be confident in the Lord’s refuge.

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Pray

Gracious Deliverer, let us have confidence in you. During times of fear and uncertainty, let us be confident in you. Rescue us, deliver us, and be our Rock and Refuge. Let us find peace in your presence. In the name of Jesus we pray, AMEN.

Go with God!