Daily Devotions

“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.” Says Psalm 34:8

The hymn I link with this verse of blessing is “Through all the changing scenes of life” by Nahum Tate (1652–1715) and Nicholas Brady (1659–1726) and I highlight verse 3.

 

O taste and see that he is good;

experience will decide

how blest are they, and only they

who in the LORD confide.

Fear him, you saints, and you will then

have nothing else to fear;

make serving him your sole delight,

your wants shall be his care.

The notion of refuge mentioned in the psalm is a fundamental element of how God blesses us.  In Hebrew, the word translated here as refuge has the deep meaning of seeking safe haven, fleeing for protection and having  trust confidence and hope in God.

Anxiety can feel like an enemy when we are trying to escape from something or someone. David was well acquainted with being chased down by his enemy. We know he fled from Saul and from Absalom. He describes God as a “refuge,” “strong tower,” and place of shelter. When anxiety rushes in, we can run to our safe place. 

In earthquake-prone areas, students have earthquake drills and are instructed to get under their desks or a sturdy table because that is the safest place they can be. A mild earthquake will still shake the world around you. Books, pencils, maybe even a light fixture might fall, but they are covered by their desk.

John Piper wrote, “God is not an employer looking for employees. He is an Eagle looking for people who will take refuge under his wings.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word and the wisdom that it contains. Thank You that I have tasted of Your saving grace and am eternally blessed, by trusting in Jesus as my Lord and Saviour. May I seek You in all the difficulties and dangers of life and recognise Your guiding hand of grace and protection in my life. You are my refuge and strength and my ever-present help in troubled times. Thank You, in Jesus' name, amen.