Beautiful Word Devotional #20

The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 18:2

Look at all the words in this single verse that suggest strength: rock, fortress, deliverer, refuge, shield, and stronghold. Each of these is what God wants to be for you, his child. He is solid. He protects. He sets free. He keeps us safe. He is strong.

Did you notice in this list “the horn of salvation”? Scholars believe the horn is another reference to God’s power, and the context definitely supports that idea. This horn is not a musical instrument, but the horn of a bull. This incredibly strong and dangerous animal can gouge a person with one of its horns. The bull’s extreme and potentially deadly power is to be feared.

Likewise, we are to fear God. We are to hold him in awe because of his great holiness and infinite power. Thankfully, he uses his strength for our good—to guide us, to love us, and to help us live our lives in his strength alone.

Lord, thank you for using your power on my behalf, amen.