Is Your Marriage Drifting?
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Is your marriage running on cruise control—or thriving with purpose?
In a world where marriages can break down quietly—without warning, scandal, or headlines—it’s more important than ever to give your relationship a regular checkup. When we neglect the small signs of disconnection, we risk drifting apart like so many couples who “just grew distant.” But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Whether you’ve been married five years or fifty, a healthy marriage takes intention. And for Christian couples, that means inviting God into the process of assessment, growth, and restoration.
Don’t Wait for the Marriage Breakdown: The Danger of Cruise Control
John and I recently heard that another couple we know is getting divorced. There was no infidelity. No financial ruin. Just… distance. They had become roommates rather than covenant partners.
Their story is heartbreaking—and it reminds us how easy it is to let our marriages drift when life gets busy. Like a car set on cruise control, we move forward without noticing we’re slowly veering off course.
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity...” —Ephesians 5:15–16 (NIV)
Check the Gauges: Signs Your Marriage Needs Attention
Just as we watch our car’s fuel level and pay attention when warning lights come on, we should do the same in marriage. Here are three warning signs that it’s time to pause and assess:
- Complaints increase. Is your spouse often frustrated or withdrawn? Are you both voicing unmet needs? Listen closely—not just to the words, but to the heart behind them.
- Silence replaces connection. When silence fills the space where conversation used to live, don’t ignore it. Silence might be more dangerous than disagreement.
- You’ve become business partners instead of best friends. Managing kids, home, and responsibilities isn’t enough. Are you still connecting emotionally and spiritually?
“A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” —Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NIV)
Ask the Right Questions
Pam and Bill Farrel, marriage authors and Christian counselors, recommend asking questions like:
- Are we spending enough time together to nurture fun and friendship?
- Are we prioritizing time alone to be lovers, not just parents or co-managers?
- Are we praying together regularly?
- Are we inviting Jesus into our marriage daily?
These questions aren’t meant to point fingers—they’re tools to build bridges.
5 Scriptures to Strengthen and Assess Your Marriage
- 1 Corinthians 13:4–7 – “Love is patient, love is kind…”
- James 1:19 – “Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.”
- Colossians 3:14 – “And over all these virtues put on love…”
- Philippians 2:3–4 – “In humility value others above yourselves.”
- 1 Peter 4:8 – “Love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
These verses are more than just wall art—they are fuel for your daily connection and compass points for your checkups.
5 Steps to Give Your Marriage a God-Centered Checkup
- Set aside time—without distractions—to talk honestly. Turn off the phones. Grab coffee. Be intentional.
- Pray together before and after the conversation. Ask God to guide your words and give you both grace.
- Identify one area each of you wants to grow in. Maybe it’s listening better, planning date nights, or sharing spiritual insights.
- Celebrate what’s going well. A marriage checkup isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s about noticing the blessings too.
- Commit to small, consistent steps forward. Growth doesn’t happen all at once. But progress is possible when both people are willing.
“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” —1 John 3:18 (NIV)
Final Thoughts: Marriage Needs Maintenance
As Melissa Marsh wisely said, “There is no perfect marriage; it doesn’t exist, period.” But that doesn’t mean we settle for survival. With God at the center, you can thrive.
Your marriage matters to God. And He’s more than able to restore, renew, and reignite your love. Don’t wait for a breakdown. Start the checkup today.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
June 30
2 Kings 16:19-20, 2 Chronicles 28:26-27, Isaiah 13:1-16:14
Melt Away the Pride
The End of Ahaz’s Reign
The king of Judah, Ahaz, has died and been buried, and now his son Hezekiah is king (2 Kings 16:19-20; 2 Chronicles 28:26-27). During this time, Isaiah is prophesying about the surrounding nations that God is allowing to take down Israel and Judah. These pagan nations, powerful in the ancient world, are instruments in God’s hands to teach His people lessons.
Isaiah 13-14: Judgment on Babylon and Assyria
Isaiah begins with a prophecy against Babylon, describing their future judgment after they take Judah into captivity. Although this event has not yet occurred, God’s message is clear:
“Scream in terror, for the day of the Lord has arrived—the time for the Almighty to destroy. Every arm is paralyzed with fear, every heart melts” (Isaiah 13:6-7)
God will crush the arrogance of the proud and humble the pride of the mighty.
Babylon, thinking themselves invincible, will be swept away by God’s broom of destruction. Despite their power, it is God who is truly all-powerful:
“I will sweep the land with the broom of destruction. I, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, have spoken” (Isaiah 14:23)
This passage also contains a parallel to the story of Lucifer, highlighting the fall of those who exalt themselves above God.
Isaiah 15-16: The Oracle Concerning Moab
Isaiah’s prophecy against Moab reveals a grim picture of overnight devastation. Moab’s cities and landmarks are destroyed, leading to widespread mourning. The rivers are filled with blood, and the nation is brought to its knees. Isaiah urges Moab to provide asylum to those in need, warning that their pride will lead to their downfall. Within three years, Moab’s glory will be drastically reduced, fulfilling the prophecy of devastation.
Word of the Day: Melt
Definition: To become altered from a solid to a liquid state, to dissolve, disintegrate, or to become subdued or crushed.
Reflection on Melting Pride
When we ponder the word “melt,” it brings to mind transformation. Just as an ice cube melts under the sun, the proud kingdom of Moab melted away under divine judgment. Their grandeur and pride disappeared, replaced by ruins and lamentations. Their strength melted away, like wax in the face of fire.
Moab had the opportunity to transform through repentance, but their pride prevented them from seeking God’s mercy and righteousness. Instead, they evaporated into nothingness.
Personal Takeaway
Reflecting on these readings, I recognize the dangers of pride and the severity of divine judgment. Yet, even in the face of judgment, God offers hope and redemption. His plan is greater than our mistakes, and He desires to transform us into people of love, humility, and righteousness.
Recognizing Our Pride
Isaiah’s warnings remind us that pride leads to serious consequences. We must recognize our tendencies to prioritize our ways over God’s and repent, seeking His guidance and wisdom.
Embracing Genuine Devotion
God calls us to live lives set apart for Him. This involves humility, repentance, and a heartfelt relationship with God. Through His strength, we can transform into people who reflect His love and righteousness.
July 1
2 Chronicles 29:3 – 31:21
Revival in Judah
The events of today’s reading take place nearly 250 years after Solomon built the temple. Despite the pervasive wickedness in the land, there are moments of profound spiritual revival, and today was one of those moments.
Hezekiah’s Leadership and Restoration
King Hezekiah, a good king, opens and repairs the Lord’s Temple doors that his father Ahaz had closed. He calls the priests and Levites to consecrate and cleanse the Temple. Acknowledging God’s displeasure, Hezekiah pledges to reestablish the covenant with the Lord.
The Levites cleanse the Temple, and after eight days, Hezekiah and the city leaders offer sacrifices. They bring seven bulls, rams, lambs, and goats as a sin sacrifice for the kingdom, sanctuary, and Judah. The congregation worships and rejoices, with a spirit of celebration not seen since Solomon’s time.
Passover Celebration and Unity
Hezekiah calls on Israel and Judah to celebrate the Passover. Despite some mockery, many take the invitation seriously. It’s the first time since Solomon that both kingdoms celebrate together. People from half the tribes come, purified and joyful. The celebration extends to 14 days, twice the normal duration. God changes hearts, leading to a joyous and extended festival.
After the Passover, sacred pillars are smashed, and Asherah poles are cut down. Hezekiah encourages the people to devote themselves fully to the Law of the Lord. The people’s generous giving supports the priests and Levites, ensuring they have more than enough to live on.
Word of the Day: Revival
Definition: An instance of something becoming popular, active, or important again—a restoration to life, consciousness, vigor, or strength.
Revival in Our Lives
Hezekiah’s wholehearted devotion to God led to his success. This story shows us that revival starts with the desire of one person, but it is God who restores. Like a neglected plant revived by sunlight and water, our faith can be revitalized when we let God’s light and water into our lives.
Eternal Revival Through Christ
The revival we see in Hezekiah’s time is temporary, but Jesus offers a permanent restoration. As John 4:14 says, “But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” True revival is an act of the Spirit of God.
Join us on the Daily Bible Podcast as we explore these powerful stories and find inspiration for our own spiritual revival.
July 2
Proverbs 25-28, Proverbs 29:1-27
Standing Upright Under Pressure
Welcome back to our journey through the Proverbs! Today, we delve into chapters 25-29, a collection of timeless wisdom curated by the advisers of King Hezekiah of Judah. These proverbs, originally penned by King Solomon, offer insights that continue to guide us today. Picture yourself walking through a gallery of life’s wisdom, each proverb like a precious artwork, transcending ages and cultures.
Proverbs 25-26
The time between King Solomon and King Hezekiah is approximately 255 years. These advisors cherished the truth they found, much like how we occasionally hear about art recovered from World War II, which was only 78 years ago. Imagine walking through a gallery of life’s wisdom, each proverb a precious artwork, whispering God’s guidance to us in every aspect of life.
Proverbs 25: Patience and Humility
Proverbs 25 sets a tone of patience and humility.
"It is God’s privilege to conceal things and the king’s privilege to discover them." (Proverbs 25:2)
This proverb emphasizes the importance of humility and grace in our dealings with others. Another vivid picture compares removing impurities from silver to removing the wicked from the king’s court. One of my favorite sayings is:
"Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket." (Proverbs 25:11)
Proverbs 26: The Folly of Foolishness
In Proverbs 26, we see the folly of honoring the foolish and the sluggard. It’s misplaced, like snow in summer or rain during harvest, causing more harm than good. This chapter emphasizes that our actions return to us. Notably, verses 4 and 5 contrast:
"Don’t answer the foolish arguments of fools," and "Be sure to answer the foolish arguments of fools." (Proverbs 26:4-5)
This teaches us that wisdom requires discernment, with God’s help, to apply the right advice in the right situation.
Proverbs 27-29: Practical Wisdom
Proverbs 27: Watch Your Tongue and Cherish Friendships
Chapter 27 advises us to watch our tongues and not brag about tomorrow. It emphasizes the value of relationships:
"As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." (Proverbs 27:17)
Proverbs 28: Boldness and Integrity
Proverbs 28:1 encourages boldness:
"The wicked run away when no one is chasing them, but the godly are as bold as lions." (Proverbs 28:1)
This chapter highlights the importance of confessing and turning from sins:
"People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy." (Proverbs 28:13)
Proverbs 29: Wisdom and Righteousness
Chapter 29 distinguishes between the godly and the wicked:
"The man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but evil people are trapped by sin." (Proverbs 29:3)
This chapter underscores the power of our words and actions, urging us to trust in the Lord for safety and wisdom.
Word of the Day: Upright
Definition: (of a person) sitting or standing with the back straight; (of a person or their behavior) strictly honorable or honest.
Centuries after his reign, King Solomon’s words paint portraits of virtue, character, and right living, summed up in the word “upright.” A person of integrity walks in the light, with their heart aligned with God, standing tall in a world of compromise and moral decay.
"Like a muddied spring or a polluted well are the righteous who give way to the wicked." (Proverbs 25:26)
"The one who walks in integrity will be delivered, but whoever is crooked in his ways will suddenly fall." (Proverbs 28:18)
"The bloodthirsty hate blameless people, but the upright seek to help them." (Proverbs 29:10)
Embracing Uprightness
Reflecting on these Proverbs, I am reminded of the strength and beauty of living uprightly. In a world filled with cruelty and heartlessness, standing tall with integrity is a call to action. We should stand upright against injustice and extend a helping hand to those who face persecution. These chapters are a gallery of divine wisdom, offering timeless guidance on humility, discernment, integrity, friendship, and trust in God. Each verse is a painting, each word a stroke of the artist’s brush, creating a masterpiece of wisdom that, when applied, brings color and texture to the canvas of our lives.
Strength in Standing Upright
To be upright is to have strength in standing straight, both in physical posture and moral integrity. Let us strive to walk in integrity, guided by God’s hand, and be bold as lions, trusting in His ultimate deliverance.
July 3
Proverbs 30, Proverbs 31:1-31
Beauty in Simplicity
Welcome back to our journey through Proverbs! Today, we delve into chapters 30 and 31, discovering timeless wisdom that guides us toward a life of honesty, contentment, and true beauty. Let’s explore the profound teachings of Agur and the celebrated virtues of the Proverbs 31 woman.
Proverbs 30: Seeking Wisdom and Contentment
In Proverbs 30, Agur, son of Jakeh, humbly seeks wisdom from God. He acknowledges the greatness of the Almighty and asks for honesty and contentment. “Every word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to him for protection” (v. 5).
Agur warns against the dangers of greed and the folly of pride, advocating for simplicity, gratitude, and humility as the path to a fulfilled life. True wisdom lies not in material possessions or worldly pursuits but in a heart that seeks after God and finds joy in the simplicity of daily blessings.
Proverbs 31: The Virtuous Woman
King Lemuel’s Wisdom
The first nine verses of Proverbs 31 were written by King Lemuel, whose name means “belonging to God.” These are the words of wisdom his mother taught him, emphasizing the dangers of indulgence and the importance of wise and watchful living.
The Proverbs 31 Woman
The remaining verses (Proverbs 31:10-31) form an acrostic poem, praising the qualities of a virtuous woman. This passage is often misunderstood as a checklist for perfection. Instead, it highlights the beauty and strength in a woman who fears the Lord and lives with purpose and diligence.
She is industrious, cares for her family, and manages her household with wisdom. Her husband trusts her, and she is known for her kindness and generosity. “Charm is deceptive and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised” (v. 30).
Word of the Day: Beauty
Definition: A combination of qualities, such as shape, color, or form, that pleases the aesthetic senses, especially the sight.
“Physical appearance is not necessarily dismissed—it simply does not endure as do those qualities that the fear of the Lord produces…one who pursues beauty may very well be disappointed by the character of the ‘beautiful’ person.”
– Allen Ross
True beauty is reflected in a woman who loves and fears the Lord. Her reverence for God shapes her character, making her a source of wisdom and strength.
Embracing True Beauty
Centuries after his reign, King Solomon’s words paint portraits of virtue, character, and right living. These qualities are summed up in the word “upright.” A person of integrity walks in the light, with their heart aligned with God, standing tall in a world of compromise and moral decay.
The Proverbs 31 woman’s life is marked by her reverence for the Lord. She is strong, both physically and emotionally, and faces challenges head-on. She is compassionate, extending a helping hand to the needy. Her words are marked by kindness and wisdom, reflecting her inner beauty.
Let us strive to be women and men of beauty and excellence. In our relationships, let us be trustworthy, supporting and uplifting those we love. Let us approach our tasks with diligence and commitment, cultivating a spirit of empathy and kindness.
June 4
Psalms 42-46
Abiding in God’s Presence
Psalm 42: A Deep Longing for God
Psalm 42 expresses a profound longing for God, likening the soul’s thirst to a deer’s desperate need for water. The sons of Korah, who authored this Psalm, were Levites known for their musical contributions to temple worship. Despite their ancestor Korah’s rebellion, these descendants dedicated their lives to praising God. In this Psalm, we see deep discouragement yet a steadfast hope in God, the psalmist’s rock:
"As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God. I thirst for God, the living God." (Psalm 42:1-2)
Psalm 43: Finding Strength and Courage
Psalm 43 is a continuation of Psalm 42’s theme, encouraging us to find strength and courage in God despite discouragement. The psalmist ends with a powerful affirmation:
"Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise Him again—my Savior and my God." (Psalm 43:5)
Psalm 44: Remembering God’s Faithfulness
Psalm 44 recounts God’s mighty deeds and laments Israel’s current suffering, pleading for divine intervention. The psalmist reminds God of their faithfulness to the covenant and appeals for mercy:
"Our heart has not turned back, nor have our steps departed from Your way." (Psalm 44:18)
This Psalm is a heartfelt cry for God’s deliverance, reflecting the communal memory of God’s past faithfulness and a plea for His present help.
Psalm 45: The Royal Wedding Song
Psalm 45 is a majestic wedding song celebrating the union of a royal bridegroom and his radiant bride. It also symbolically reflects the deep love between Christ, the heavenly Bridegroom, and His Church:
"Charm is deceptive and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised." (Proverbs 31:30)
Psalm 46: Trust in God’s Unshakeable Refuge
Psalm 46 is a hymn of unwavering trust in God, declaring His omnipotent presence and our refuge in Him:
"Be still and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)
This Psalm reassures us of God’s strength and sovereignty, offering peace amidst life’s chaos and turmoil.
Word of the Day: Abiding
Definition: Lasting a long time; enduring.
Embracing Abiding Faith
These Psalms reveal a profound truth: we can continually abide in God’s presence, finding comfort and strength in His enduring love. Whether through longing, courage, remembrance, celebration, or trust, we are invited to dwell deeply in His grace.
A Personal Story of Abiding Faith
A few days after my Grandma returned home from the hospital, I was doing my morning Bible reading and went to check on her. She was wide awake, so I asked if she wanted me to read. I started reading Psalm 42 and paused to ask if she remembered the song “As the Deer.” She did, and we began singing together, followed by “Great is Thy Faithfulness” and “How Great Thou Art.”
Despite her recent surgery and memory challenges, my Grandma remembered these hymns. In those moments, we abided with God together. Singing these hymns was a spiritual anchor for both of us, reminding us of God’s faithful presence.
Conclusion
These Psalms unveil a profound truth: We can be recipients of God’s divine affection, take refuge in Him, and abide in Him at any time. As we bask in His love and find solace in His refuge, we become vessels of hope, peace, and transformation in a broken and hurting world.
July 5
Psalms 47-49, 84-85, 87
Longing for God’s Presence
Welcome back to our journey through the Psalms! Today, we delve into Psalms 47, 48, 49, 84, 85, and 87, uncovering the timeless wisdom and heartfelt cries that guide us toward a life of honesty, contentment, and true beauty. Let’s explore these profound teachings and understand how they speak to our lives today.
Psalm 47: Exalting God as King
Psalm 47 calls upon all people to joyfully acknowledge and exalt God as the King over all the earth. The psalmist encourages everyone to clap their hands, shout joyfully, and praise the Most High. The reason for this praise is clear: God is the sovereign King, reigning over the nations and choosing the inheritance for His people. His reign is characterized by righteousness and love.
"Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy. For the Lord Most High is awesome, the great King over all the earth." (Psalm 47:1-2)
Psalm 48: Celebrating the City of God
Psalm 48 celebrates the greatness and splendor of Mount Zion, the city of God. Jerusalem is depicted as a secure and majestic fortress, bringing forth a sense of awe and wonder. The psalmist praises the Lord for His faithfulness and recounts the city’s history of deliverance and protection against its enemies. The beauty of Zion is highlighted, encouraging all to walk about its walls, consider its palaces, and tell future generations of God’s steadfast love.
"Great is the Lord, and most worthy of praise, in the city of our God, his holy mountain." (Psalm 48:1)
Psalm 49: Trusting in God Over Wealth
Psalm 49 speaks about where true security lies, and it’s not in wealth. The psalmist calls all people, rich and poor, to listen to his words of wisdom. He emphasizes that no amount of riches can secure a person’s eternal life, as everyone faces the same fate in death. Instead, the psalmist encourages trust in God, who will save His people from the power of the grave, cautioning against the pursuit of wealth and highlighting the value of wisdom and a righteous life.
“Why should I fear when evil days come, when wicked deceivers surround me— those who trust in their wealth and boast of their great riches?” (Psalm 49:5-6)
Psalm 84: The Beauty of God’s Dwelling Place
Charles Spurgeon called Psalm 84 “The Pearl of Psalms” for its sweetness and expression of longing for God. The psalmist describes a deep desire to be in God’s presence, finding more joy in a single day in His courts than a thousand elsewhere. This Psalm convicts us to examine our own longing for God amid the distractions of daily life.
"How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of Heaven’s Armies. I long, yes, I faint with longing to enter the courts of the Lord. A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else!" (Psalm 84:1-2, 10)
Psalm 85: A Plea for Revival
Alexander Maclaren noted that Psalm 85 fits well with the backdrop of the book of Nehemiah. This psalm is a plea for God’s restoration and blessing, recalling past mercies and asking for renewal. The psalmist acknowledges God’s past blessings and appeals for His continued favor, expressing hope and confidence in God’s future blessings.
"Restore us again, God our Savior, and put away your displeasure toward us. Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?" (Psalm 85:4, 6)
Psalm 87: The Glory of Jerusalem
Psalm 87 is a moving tribute to the city of God, Jerusalem. It highlights the special status of the city and its inhabitants, emphasizing the significance of being born in Zion and the pride of those who are counted among its citizens.
"The Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the other dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are said of you, city of God." (Psalm 87:2-3)
Word of the Day: Longing
Definition: A yearning desire. A craving, thirst, or hunger.
Embracing Longing for God
As I reflect on these Psalms, particularly Psalm 84, I am convicted by the psalmist’s deep longing to be with God. This desire challenges me to evaluate my own hunger for God’s presence amidst life’s distractions. Do I truly long to spend time with Him, or do I get caught up in the busyness of daily life?
On a day when I was overwhelmed by worldly concerns, these verses reminded me of the importance of yearning for God. They prompted me to pray for a heart that genuinely longs for Him, above all else.
July 6
Psalms 1-2, 10, 33, 71, 91
Finding Peace in Protection
Welcome back to our exploration of the Psalms! Today, we delve into Psalms 1-2, 10, 33, 71, and 91, uncovering the timeless wisdom and heartfelt cries that guide us toward a life of honesty, contentment, and true beauty. Let’s explore these profound teachings and understand how they speak to our lives today.
Psalm 1-2: The Righteous vs. the Wicked
In Psalms 1 and 2, we see the contrast between the ways of the righteous and the ways of the ungodly. There is joy in following God’s law, delighting in it, and finding strength in Him. The psalmist compares the righteous to a strong tree bearing fruit, while the wicked are like chaff, scattered by the wind.
"Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked...but whose delight is in the law of the Lord." (Psalm 1:1-2)
Psalm 2 emphasizes the importance of submitting to God’s royal Son, foreshadowing Christ.
"Submit to God’s royal son...But what joy for all who take refuge in him!" (Psalm 2:12)
Psalm 10: A Cry for Justice
Psalm 10 is a lament at the seeming prosperity of the wicked but expresses ultimate confidence in God’s judgments. The psalmist pleads for God to punish the wicked and protect the innocent, knowing that God sees and knows all.
"Why, Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?" (Psalm 10:1)
Psalm 33: Praise for God’s Sovereignty
Psalm 33 is a joyful song of praise and trust in God’s sovereignty and faithfulness. The psalmist celebrates God’s creative power and His control over nature, urging all the earth to fear and reverence the Lord.
"The Lord merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born." (Psalm 33:6)
Psalm 71: A Prayer for Protection
Psalm 71 is a heartfelt prayer of a faithful servant seeking God’s protection and deliverance. The psalmist recounts God’s faithfulness throughout their life, expressing unwavering faith in God’s righteousness and steadfast love.
"In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame." (Psalm 71:1)
Psalm 91: Assurance of God’s Protection
Psalm 91 is a powerful declaration of God’s protection and provision for those who trust Him. It describes the safety and refuge found in the shelter of the Almighty, assuring that no harm will overcome those who trust in God.
"Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." (Psalm 91:1)
Word of the Day: Protection
Definition: The action of protecting, or the state of being protected.
Embracing God’s Protection
As I reflect on these Psalms, the theme of protection stands out vividly. Each psalm emphasizes seeking refuge and finding safety in God. Whether it is protection from the wicked (Psalms 1-2, 10), protection of the righteous (Psalm 33), protection and deliverance from adversaries (Psalm 71), or the overall theme of God’s protective care (Psalm 91), the concept of protection is central to all these psalms.
Last year, I spent a lot of time in the ICU with dear friends who were going through a tragedy. Witnessing another person’s systems fail, I was amazed that any of us are walking around at all! When I consider the word “Protection,” I think of our Protector. Psalm 33:6 reminds us of God’s power in creation:
"The Lord merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born."
As God’s children, we have the unwavering protection of our faithful God. Like a loving parent, God surrounds us with His divine shield, safeguarding us from the enemy’s snares. In times of distress, He is our refuge, our fortress of strength. We can trust in His mighty power to shield us from harm and deliver us from evil.
The protection offered to us extends beyond physical safety. It encompasses the preservation of our souls, guarding our hearts from despair and hopelessness. When the world bombards us with fear and doubt, we can rest assured that God’s loving arms are our eternal sanctuary.
Even during life’s storms, we can declare the faithfulness and loving-kindness of our Protector. Last year, while singing praise songs with friends in an ICU unit, their son passed away, yet they still believed in God’s protection. They felt held and cherished in their pain and had hope. Because of Jesus, they knew they would see their son again. Even in their darkest moments, God protected their hearts and minds, fixing them on eternity with Him.
Conclusion
These Psalms reveal profound truths about seeking refuge in God’s protection. Whether facing adversity or celebrating God’s sovereignty, we can always trust in His unfailing care. Let us remember that God watches over us, guiding our steps and offering wisdom in every decision. In life’s storms, we can declare His faithfulness, knowing that He is our ever-present defender.
