Read Psalm 62:1-12.

I live in the beautiful Eden Valley area of Cumbria and the landscape is littered with the ruins of a multitude of medieval castles, each one a testimony to our bloody and troubled past in the borderlands between the two nations of Scotland and England. Interestingly, in the vast majority of cases, even though the castle’s outer walls may have fallen or been taken to build a local farmhouse, the Norman-built keep usually remains largely intact. Whilst a fortress is also a strong tower or refuge, the term ‘fortress’ strongly suggests a military stronghold, a keep or citadel – something that holds out resolutely against all outside influence or disturbance.

This is a tremendous picture of who God is: He is not only our covenant partner who has laid His entire spiritual armoury at our disposal (including myriads of the angelic host) but He is also actively supporting us through our storms and contending for us against all opposing spiritual assignments sent to knock us off course, sap our strength, bring discouragement or despair and consume our thoughts through every waking moment. God Himself is our complete protection – His presence, His covering, His shield of love in the blood of Jesus.

God Himself is our complete protection – His presence, His covering, His shield of love in the blood of Jesus.

The even better news is that through the blood of Jesus we are recreated, spiritually-alive temples of the Spirit’s presence. This is a complete game changer: we no longer have to accept being beaten down or overwhelmed by our storms because the indwelling Spirit can strengthen us so we too become built-up in Him to be a spiritual strong tower and fortress. The key is to welcome the Holy Spirit to make our heart His home, to make the choice to submit ourselves fully to God, and maintain a humble heart that is willing to obey. Only then we can take heart and dare to believe that He will not only protect us and fight for us but strengthen us through the process. God is very much on our side; whilst it may seem we are facing our storms alone, that is a lie of the enemy. Our great covenant partner is with us and, with Him alongside, we will not be shaken by them.

Additional reading: Psalm 27:14; John 16:33; 2 Corinthians 5:17.

Prayer Time:

Re-read Psalm 62 and note down the following:

• The different names of God.
• What do these tell you about Him, His nature and how He sees you?
• What impresses you most about the Psalmist’s faith in God?

Spend some time working through verse 8 for yourself. Pour your heart out to Him. Receive His peace.