Always Joyful

This passage begins with the psalmist running to God in search of protection and ends with celebration, praise, and joy. Isn’t it interesting how often our own encounters with God work the same way? At times, we run to him at the first sign of danger; at others, we treat him as a last resort. In both scenarios, we come face-to-face with a powerful, loving God who has stood and continues to stand by our side as we experience all of life’s victories and failures.

There is a lesson in this passage, too. Instead of dwelling on the situation the psalmist needs protection from, he reminds himself of God’s faithfulness as he’s seen it, firsthand, time and time again. He remembers God’s promises and his sovereignty, and therefore knows that his future is secure.

I love the wording of verse 8: “I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” He doesn’t say the Lord will protect him from the things that scare him, but rather, from fear itself. With God by our side, we can be bold. We can have courage. There is no need for fear, because standing right next to us, through every storm we weather, is the master of the universe, the defeater of sin, and a firm anchor in the midst of changing seas.

By the time the psalmist reaches the end of the passage, he has experienced a change of perspective. While he came to God seeking protection, he realizes that God has always been with him and he’s always been protecting him, and all there’s left to do is be joyful in his presence. Oh, that we would realize and remember this extraordinary truth in our lives, too.

Respond in Prayer

Powerful Father, thank you for your faithfulness and protection, and for always standing beside me. Truly, you have shown me the path to life, and you make me glad by being near to me. Amen.

Larissa Benfey

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).