Our Refuge and Fortress

Today let me say how grateful we are to those who make gifts to the Dial Hope Foundation that enable this ministry to touch so many. Your generous support is a real Godsend.

Some of you may remember Jimmy Stewart. For a time he was one of Hollywood’s most loved and respected actors. By all accounts, Stewart’s character and integrity were influenced by his parents. He once wrote of his father’s wise advice to him before he went off to fight in World War II. In a letter, Alex Stewart wrote, “My dear Jim boy, soon after you read this letter, you will be on your way to the worst sort of danger . . . I am banking on the enclosed copy of the 91st Psalm. The thing that takes the place of fear and worry is the promise of these words . . . I can say no more . . . I love you more than I can tell you. Dad.” 

Psalm 91 reads in part:

You who live in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress; my God in whom I trust… Those who love me, I will deliver… When they call to me, I will answer them; I will be with them in trouble…”

Trust is the antidote to worry and fear. No doubt we live in a troubled world. The issues we face are complex. But, God has promised to be with us no matter what the future holds. God is our refuge and our fortress. No matter what burdens you may be carrying; no matter what sort of danger you may be facing, may you take these words to heart.

Trust God.

Let us pray: Loving and gracious God, We pray today, especially for those who are in the midst of the real danger. We pray for your protection, mercy, and deliverance. Grant courage and hope to those who need it most today. And we pray that you would hasten the day when wars will cease and your peace reign. May that peace reign even now in our hearts. Amen.