Psalm 31:2 – While We Wait

“Turn your ear to listen to me;
rescue me quickly.
Be my rock of protection,
    a fortress where I will be safe.”
(Psalm 31:2)

This is a great verse to help us when we are feeling afraid or apprehensive about something happening in our lives. As I’m writing this, we’re approaching the end of Holy Week on Saturday. Jesus’ followers would have been worried and fearful they might be hunted down and executed next. It would have been a time of reflection and crying out to God.

Context: Psalm 31 is a psalm of David with a feeling of lament all the way through. David also reminds us God is who we should trust. Sometimes when we’re stuck in one of those challenges of life, we forget to fully rely on God. In this verse, as well the whole psalm, David cries out for God’s deliverance from his enemies.

The psalmist isn’t afraid to call on God. He even tells God what he wants him to do. First of all, David wants God to listen to him, and then come quickly to rescue him. We shouldn’t be afraid to be direct with God either, letting him know exactly what is on our heart.

Picturing God as our fortress is oddly comforting, wouldn’t you agree? When I picture a fortress, it’s not only a tangible place, but fortified and able to withstand any attack. God protects us like that and acknowledging that can be reassuring in itself. What other pictures of God’s protection resonate with you?

When we ask for help, we then have to wait on God’s timing to respond. It can be hard in our instant gratification style world. David would have been waiting for deliverance from his enemies. The disciples would have been waiting to hear that the “coast was clear” so they could venture out of hiding. Little did they realize that they would soon be seeing Jesus face to face.

We find ourselves waiting for Jesus’ promised return. That’s something we all have in common. But there may be something else eating away at you. Perhaps it’s waiting for test results, a second interview, a promotion, an upcoming vacation, the birth of your child or grandchild. We’re always waiting for something.

Don’t rush past today’s reflection on exactly how this verse can set you up for success. You will be safe in the fortress of the Lord. Cry out to God for rescue from sin and evil today.

Let’s pray. Lord, you are my fortress and place of safety. I trust you with my life and cherish your protection. Thank you for all that you did for me and continue to do out of love. Your love amazes me. Give me patience as I wait for you to move. Calm my fears and guide my path. Continue to speak through me and use me for your kingdom work. In Jesus’ name. Amen.