Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. 2 From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. 3 For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe.

Psalm 61:1-3

What a joy it is to know that when we feel overwhelmed we can cry out to God in the sure knowledge that he hears and responds. King David demonstrates this confidence and, as the Lord was his refuge, so he is ours. Despite being one of the most powerful men of his time, David recognized that he needed a ‘rock that is higher’ than he (v 2), as he was unable to secure a firm footing above his own crisis. His present trust was based on past faithfulness as he declares, ‘you have been my refuge’ (v 3). When the storms of life come, recalling God’s past faithfulness can help us see a way through, increase our faith and trust. David brings to our attention image after image of places of safety: shelter, strong tower, tabernacle/tent, and the shelter of wings.

Today’s psalm concludes with the Messianic glimpse toward the one to come from David’s line, who will be enthroned forever (v 7). We too must cry out to God and led by the Spirit, may we all find our shelter, refuge and strong tower in the Rock, our Savior Jesus Christ. Having begun the psalm with a desperate cry, David ends it with praise.

CLOSING PRAYER: God in heaven, you indeed are my stronghold, my refuge, and my salvation. You are worthy of my trust and praise. Help me to rest in you.

(A Summary from Encounter with God)