Somehow I have become moderately addicted to the veterinary shows on TV. I am fascinated to watch the faces of the pets and livestock as they deal with their illnesses and wounds. Typically, these animals hide themselves away to suffer alone. Sometimes, only their eyes show the depth of their discomfort. It’s only when the owner notices their absence and seeks them out, that care and healing can begin at the hands of a skilled practitioner.
As I watch, I realize how like those animals I am. My “go to” reaction to hurt and pain is to emotionally hide myself away where I do my best to shelter my heart from the wounds inflicted by circumstances, people who wish me harm, and even my friends on occasion. I need the time and space to evaluate what happened and how I can avoid a particular pain in the future. For those who know me, the pain in my eyes always gives me away. I can hide my emotions, but I can’t hide the pain in my eyes.
One of the highlights of each week for me is a Monday morning meeting with a group of friends for an hour of prayer. This week, we focused on Psalm 32:7 as we prepared our hearts and minds for our time of prayer. The words of this verse spoke deeply to my heart. For the past few days, I have felt the need to find a safe place to find solace and healing. Hearing this passage about the Lord being that safe place came at just the right time.
You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. – Psalm 32:7 (NIV)
Psalm 32:7 gives me a much better perspective on how to handle the wounds and difficulties in my life. It reminds me that Jesus is my safe place. With gentleness and compassion He embraces my wounded soul and walks with me through the healing process. I am under His protection and safe from harm.
I am intrigued that the Lord surrounds me with “songs of deliverance” or “songs of victory” as some Bible translations say. The musician in me knows that music is a great healer. I can imagine the angels in heaven singing praises to the Lord each time He restores a lost and wounded soul. I lift my voice to join theirs in a chorus of victory. When I trust in the Lord, I am assured that my life is safe in His hands.
I know this does not mean I will never experience difficulties and challenges. However, it does mean that when hard times come, I can have confidence that God cares for me and my life is secure in Him. He is always there. The more I seek His presence and trust in Him, the more I will live securely, delighting in his presence and singing songs of victory and deliverance. He is the best hiding place of all.
Simple Faith 