Fly Away Or Stay

I said, “Oh, that I had the wings of a dove!
I would fly away and be at rest.
I would flee far away and stay in the desert.”

Psalm 55:6–7

Pause

Some theologians believe David coined today’s key verse after he became Israel’s king. Responsibilities and enemies stacked against him, and he longed to escape. He ached for his shepherding days. Life was simpler then. If only he could escape the palace, politics, and power struggles. If only he could run away and hide among the woolies. If only he could rest.

I can relate. Perhaps you can, too. We wish we could sprout wings. Fly away like a dove. Hide in a hole in a rock somewhere. Kiss stress, headaches, and sleeplessness goodbye. If only.

David poured out his heart to God, and then his tone changed. “But I will call on God, and the Lord will rescue me” (Psalm 55:16 nlt). Acknowledging his emotions was healthy. Depending on God to help him stay the course was right.

Our God will rescue us, too. He won’t give us an escape pass, but he’ll give us wisdom and strength to stay the course and do what’s right.

Ponder

What makes you want to fly away and rest?

Pray

Lord, help me persevere in your strength.