Psalm 34:6 “This poor man called,”
[When I recognize my weakness and poverty of wisdom, my lack of strength and the smallness of my resources; when all my pretenses were laid aside and I am honest before myself and before you, Lord, then I call to you all the more whole-heartedly, all the more earnestly. I am more open to you in my need, knowing that I cannot trust in myself. I am then in the position you desire so that you may act in wisdom and power.]
“and the LORD heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles.”
[When I cry out thus, then you act, then you save. You wait for us to come to the position of surrender and trust, seeing and embracing our weakness before you act to snatch us from the jaws of the dragon, to pluck us out of the fire, to surround and shelter us in the midst of turmoil.]
Psalm 34:7 “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.”
[Here is the summary of your plan for protection. You pursue partnership, wanting trust, surrender and obedience from us–meaning we fear you, standing in awe of you and acting out of that awe, caring deeply what you think about everything–and then you continually deliver us. You send your angel to surround us with love, power and grace, you have him deliver us consistently, as we fear you. Help us, Lord, to fear you, to live in awe of you at all times.]
Psalm 34:8 Taste and see that the LORD is good;”
[Here’s God’s challenge to us: if you don’t believe He’s trustable, taste and see what the Lord really is. Remember all the goodness He has poured out in our lives and those of others. Start trusting and see what He does. ]
“blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.”
[How happy, protected, helped and safe is the man who acts on this Truth and runs to God for protection and shelter. Again, here is the partnership God desires: He stands ready to act, waiting for us to seek refuge in Him.
May we honor you, Lord, by partnering with you throughout this day, trusting you, fearing you, taking refuge in you each moment.]
