In a dangerous world, do we take refuge in God? Are we targeted by criminals? As society gets more dangerous, are prayer and trust in God our first thoughts? Let’s look at Psalm 11.
When danger comes we could head for the hills, but is there a better refuge?
I have taken refuge in the Lord. How can you say to me, “Escape to the mountain like a bird!” (Ps 11:1 HCSB)
Do the wicked of this world see the upright as easy targets to prey upon?
Look, the wicked have bent their bow and placed their arrow on the string, to shoot from the darkness at the upright in heart. (Ps 11:2 ISV)
If the foundations of our society are ruined because of political, economic and criminal corruption, what happens to the righteous?
If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? (Ps 11:3 KJV)
We may not always know what to do when our world falls apart, but what should be our very first act? We know that God hates wickedness, but will we pass the test and patiently trust Him?
Yahweh is in His holy temple; Yahweh’s throne is in heaven; His eyes behold, His eyelids test the sons of men. Yahweh tests the righteous, But the wicked and the one who loves violence His soul hates. (Ps 11:4-5 LSB)
What are the two very different ends for the wicked and the righteous?
He will rain coals of fire upon the wicked, And brimstone and burning wind will be the portion of their cup. For the Lord is righteous, He loves righteousness; The upright will see His face. (Ps 11:6-7 NASB)
It sounds strange to us, but do we pass the test by counting troubles as pure joy?
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4 NIV)
In a dangerous world, do we take refuge in God? Are we targeted by criminals? As society gets more dangerous, are prayer and trust in God our first thoughts? You decide!
