The Lord Is My Portion In The Land Of The Living Series

THE LORD IS MY PORTION IN THE LAND OF THE LIVING

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 142:5 – “I cried unto thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living.”

Supporting Texts: Lamentations 3:22-24; Psalm 16:5-6; Numbers 18:20; Psalm 73:26

INTRODUCTION:

In life, people often look to possessions, achievements, and human connections as their source of fulfilment. Yet the psalmist, even in distress, boldly declares that the Lord is his portion in the land of the living. This statement is not merely poetic—it is a profound revelation that God Himself is the ultimate treasure, protector, and sustainer of His people.

To say “The Lord is my portion” means that no matter what we lose or what others possess, God is enough. The psalmist was surrounded by trouble, but his confidence rested not in his circumstances but in the unchanging character of God. Unlike earthly possessions, which fade and fail, God’s presence and promises never diminish.

This truth challenges believers today to shift their focus from temporary gains to eternal realities. When you make God your portion, you gain peace in turmoil, strength in weakness, and hope in despair. It is an invitation to deeper intimacy with God and an assurance that His sufficiency will sustain you in every season.

1. GOD AS OUR TRUE INHERITANCE

When you choose the Lord as your portion, you acknowledge Him as your ultimate inheritance and treasure.

a) Earthly inheritances are temporary (Ecclesiastes 5:13-15)

Wealth and possessions can vanish in an instant, but the Lord remains unchanging and eternal.

b) God’s presence is the greatest possession (Psalm 16:5-6)

David understood that the lines had fallen in pleasant places because the Lord Himself was his inheritance.

c) Spiritual inheritance surpasses all worldly gains (Ephesians 1:11)

In Christ, we receive an inheritance that is imperishable and secured by God’s power.

d) Only God can fully satisfy the human heart (Psalm 73:25-26)

No relationship or achievement can take God’s place as the source of fulfilment.

Biblical Example: The tribe of Levi received no physical land as their inheritance (Numbers 18:20), for the Lord Himself was their portion, demonstrating that God’s presence is better than material blessings.

2. GOD AS OUR REFUGE AND SECURITY

The Lord as our portion means He is our safe place and unfailing protector.

a) God is a strong tower in times of trouble (Proverbs 18:10)

Running to Him brings safety no earthly refuge can provide.

b) Trust in God removes fear (Psalm 56:3-4)

Fear diminishes when we realise God is bigger than every challenge we face.

c) God’s promises provide stability (Isaiah 41:10)

His assurance of help and strength keeps us steady even in adversity.

d) No enemy can overpower God’s protection (Psalm 91:1-4)

When you dwell in His secret place, you are shielded under His wings.

Biblical Example: David found God as his secure refuge while hiding in the caves of Adullam, proving that divine protection transcends human danger (1 Samuel 22:1-2).

3. GOD AS OUR SOURCE OF PROVISION

To have the Lord as your portion is to trust Him as your provider.

a) God supplies all needs (Philippians 4:19)

His provision extends beyond finances to emotional, spiritual, and physical needs.

b) God sustains in times of lack (1 Kings 17:6)

Even in famine, He provided for Elijah through ravens.

c) Dependence on God brings contentment (1 Timothy 6:6-8)

When your heart rests in Him, you are free from the trap of discontent.

d) God’s blessings are enduring (Proverbs 10:22)

Unlike fleeting riches, His blessings enrich without sorrow.

Biblical Example: The Israelites in the wilderness experienced God’s provision through manna and water from the rock, proving He sustains His people (Exodus 16:4-15).

4. GOD AS OUR JOY AND STRENGTH

Making the Lord your portion brings unshakeable joy and renewed strength.

a) God’s joy strengthens believers (Nehemiah 8:10)

His joy empowers you to endure trials with hope.

b) His presence fills with gladness (Psalm 16:11)

Spending time with God transforms despair into rejoicing.

c) God restores broken hearts (Psalm 34:18)

When life wounds you, His love heals and renews.

d) Strength from God never fails (Isaiah 40:29-31)

Those who wait on the Lord are empowered to rise above challenges.

Biblical Example: Paul and Silas sang praises in prison, and their joy in God led to a miraculous deliverance (Acts 16:25-26).

5. GOD AS OUR ETERNAL HOPE

The Lord as our portion guarantees a future beyond this world.

a) God’s promises secure our future (Jeremiah 29:11)

His plans are always for your good and not destruction.

b) Eternal life is the believer’s ultimate reward (John 14:2-3)

Christ has prepared a place for those who trust Him.

c) Hope in God sustains during trials (Romans 8:18)

Present sufferings cannot compare to the glory ahead.

d) God’s portion is unending (Revelation 21:3-4)