Forty Days in the PsalmsNäide

Ever had one of those days when you just wanted to run away? When problems come like rain and troubles spring up like weeds? On a day like that, I (Shawn) sometimes dream about escape—a mountain retreat, a beachside bungalow. I fight against the temptation to lose myself for a few minutes on social media. Maybe if I look at other people’s problems, mine won’t seem so big!

The problem with running away is that the problems will be there when you get back. Even if you find a way to run away permanently, those problems will usually pop up in your new setting because of the common element: you!

In this Psalm, David, the writer, responds as if he’s debating with himself:

"In the LORD I take refuge; how can you say to my soul, 'Flee like a bird to your mountain…'." (Psalm 11:1).

David wants to run away because of the trouble. Enemies bend their bow and are ready to strike. Foundations are shaken. It would be better for me to just escape from this mess.

David counters that feeling with a statement of faith, “In the LORD I take refuge.” When you feel like running away, run to the Lord!

You may not have someone chasing you down with a bow and arrow. The foundations of your house may not be literally shaking. But you do have an enemy who shoots spiritual arrows. Someone who wants you to believe your whole life is about to crumble.

Jesus told Simon Peter, “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail...” (Luke 22:31,32).

You may want to run from your problems today. Instead, run to the Lord. He is praying for you. Join your prayers to His.

RESPOND IN PRAYER:

Be specific about your problems, enemies, and feelings with God. He wants to hear from you. Then take refuge in the promises of Psalm 11:4-7.