Psalm 9:9-10
What a wonderful statement this truly is–“The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed.” All of us have some sort of refuge we run into whenever we feel vulnerable in life. We seek some type of stronghold in which we hope to find security. For some, it is the stronghold of material wealth. For others, it is the stronghold of admiration and praise from people. Our stronghold is what we truly worship and identify with. It is where we derive our sense of worth and meaning. In the Old Testament, the nation of Israel repeatedly fell into idolatry because they sought the work of their own hands above the worship of God. They wanted a king so that they could be like other nations. Political power become a makeshift stronghold. They adopted the lifestyle patterns of their pagan neighbors, even sacrificed their sons and daughters to false gods in pursuit of some material stronghold. All the while, keep in mind the fact that God had promised to be the stronghold of His people! Why run anywhere else? David recognizes this truth in this psalm. In his own personal time of trouble, he confesses that the Lord is his stronghold. Those who truly know God in the power of His name will put their trust in Him. They will stake all of their confidence in Him. When we feel vulnerable, we must remember that our God is our stronghold, and He has not forsaken those who seek Him.
“Father in heaven, I praise You today for being my stronghold. Your name is a strong and mighty tower in which I find refuge. When I feel weak and overwhelmed, when I feel my strength is evaporated, I run to You! In these chaotic days, may Your people truly turn to You alone as their refuge and stronghold. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”