![A40742D0-D0A8-445E-A07B-D4D5B302707F[1].png](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5661ba24e4b054281a2bfd6f/1563994400962-D3O98SM98IWYVZPXBHPF/A40742D0-D0A8-445E-A07B-D4D5B302707F%5B1%5D.png)
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
My Two Cents….
The first verse of Psalm 27 says it all. At least it says what is needed when things go bump in the night, or when my courage falters. Fear is more than our worse enemy, it is a gravitational pull toward our worse selves. When we are afraid, we stop being the creatures that God intended us to be. No longer do we consider the needs of those around us. We focus on survival and self-preservation.
The irony, of course, is that since God made us to be in relationship with others and the rest of creation when we turn away in fear, we head in the direction that leads ultimately to destruction. Whether we acknowledge it or not, fear is dangerous and damaging. It is also detrimental to our spiritual health.
In one short and easily memorized verse, Psalm 27 directs our attention to our relationship with God. God is light that is able to brighten the darkest and scariest night. God is salvation - a fancy, ‘churchy’ word that speaks to restoration - a putting back together of a thousand busted shards. What is more, God is with us and for us. It is in God’s steadfast nature to be madly in love with creation - including little ‘ol afraid me.
These things give me courage, which is the ability to face fears and not give it to fear’s debased demands. Since courage comes and goes, rises and falls, I lean into Psalm 27 making it my prayer. With an earnest longing, I ask that these words might ring true to my ears this day.
In Christ’s Light,
Walt
Permission granted to share today's content with family and friends. Copyrighted 2019. Walt Lichtenberger