Taking Courage In God

How great is the goodness

you have stored up for those who fear you.

You lavish it on those who come to you for protection,

blessing them before the watching world.

You hide them in the shelter of your presence,

safe from those who conspire against them.

You shelter them in your presence,

far from accusing tongues. . . .

So be strong and courageous,

all you who put your hope in the LORD!

Psalm 31:19-20, 24

In this prayer, David described God as a shelter that protected him from the dangers of this world—his enemies, harmful lies, and conspiracies. As king of Israel, David would have had the nation’s might at his command. At the same time, he would have been the target of all kinds of attacks. David wisely sought God’s protection. He knew God protects and blesses those who run to him for safety. He took courage in the fact that God would shield him from any danger he would encounter.

In prayer, ask God to protect you and your family with his presence. Pray that his protection might give you the courage to do the tasks before you.

• O God, shelter me in your presence, and help me to take courage in you . . .