Righteous Deliverer

“In you, O LORD, do I take refuge; let me never be put to shame! In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; incline your ear to me, and save me!” (Psalm 71:1-2, ESV). Psalm 71 begins with this earnest call to God for deliverance. God is once again likened to a stronghold, a place of refuge where the psalmist can shelter from his enemies. But the moral overtones are even more pronounced than the military imagery in these first verses: deliverance is not only the preservation of life, but of honor (v.1), and the righteousness of God, rather than His power, is highlighted as the basis of His redemptive work. God is holy, and He rescues His holy ones from both death and disgrace.

Keep your hope firmly fixed on God, who saves in righteousness. Look to Christ, who bore your shame upon the cross, for cleansing from all your sins. Look to God, the thrice-holy Triune Savior, for deliverance from all your enemies—even from death. May God strengthen you and shelter you today.