Finding Strength and Refuge in God

Blog by Gem Fadling

Over the course of my life I have relied on various scriptures to carry me through different seasons. However, there are a few passages that have been paradigms for my life and heart. The first of these is, of course, John 15. But another verse that I have held closely is Psalm 27:4.

Today, I simply want to offer a few selected verses from Psalm 27, followed by some reflection questions.

I do hope you’ll set aside just 10 minutes to sink into this important psalm.

Psalm 27

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? (v. 1)

One thing I ask from the Lord,
    this only do I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
    all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the Lord
    and to seek him in his temple.
For in the day of trouble
    he will keep me safe in his dwelling;
he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent
    and set me high upon a rock. (vv. 4-5)

I remain confident of this:
    I will see the goodness of the Lord
    in the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord;
    be strong and take heart
    and wait for the Lord. (vv. 13-14)

First, read the psalm slowly, underlining anything that strikes you.

Then take time to journal or pray the following questions.

Where are you feeling PRESSED TO YOUR EDGES right now?

Certainly there are relationships or situations in your life that make you feel spread thin. Or maybe you are in a circumstance that provokes fear. Meet God in this place.

What is the ONE THING you ask of God?

The psalmist asks to dwell with God and gaze upon him. What would you ask God as your most central petition in this season?

How might God be FORMING you in this?

This one can be difficult to answer in the midst of a situation, but if you have enough space, it can be good to wonder about this. You can always simply ask God.

How is God INVITING you to respond?

Pause now and listen for some invitations. What is God hoping for you? How do you want to respond to God right now?

Feel free to print this and use it in your next prayer time or unhurried time with God. May you be refreshed, encouraged, and held by Psalm 27.