We've all endured difficult times in life. Some situations seem so hard and hopeless we wish we could fly off somewhere to get away from it all. How do things get that way? What causes these circumstances?
More often than not, it's connected to relationships—marriage, family dynamics, friendships, even work-related conflicts. At times, the proverbial "between a rock and a hard place" situations have a larger scope.
Millions of refugees throughout the world understand this. They didn't cause their dilemma, nor do they have control over it. They're faced with an untenable decision—do they stay or do they flee?
Scripture
For the director of music. Of David.
I trust in the Lord for protection. So why do you say to me, “Fly like a bird to your mountain.
Like hunters, the wicked string their bows; they set their arrows on the bowstrings. They shoot from dark places at those who are honest. [vss 1-2]
When the foundations for good collapse, what can good people do?” The Lord is in his holy temple; the Lord sits on his throne in heaven. He sees what people do; he keeps his eye on them. [vss 3-4]
The Lord tests those who do right, but he hates the wicked and those who love to hurt others.
He will send hot coals and burning sulfur on the wicked. A whirlwind is what they will get. The Lord does what is right, and he loves justice, so honest people will see his face. [vss 5-7]
(Psalm 11:1-7 NCV) [Context– Psalm 11]
Key phrase— I trust in the Lord for protection
[bctt tweet="I trust in the Lord for protection"]
Digging Deeper...
Review the Scriptures above as you answer the following questions
What does the psalmist declare to those who tell him to fly away?
What is the dilemma expressed that good and honest people must answer?
What two contrasting thoughts are given as assurance in the second half of this psalm?
What simple truth brings assurance, even when wickedness appears to dominate good?
Reflection...
When the foundation of moral goodness seems like it's crumbling around us, how should we respond? Some of us may try to fight for what's right. Others look for ways to avoid it all.
I'm reminded of the anti-war protests of the '60's. Rallies formed at military induction centers and college campuses, full of emotion and rhetoric. Some protestors went to jail, while others fled the country to protest what they saw as an unjust war.
But there's another option to the classic fight or flight reaction. It requires faith. Not a blind or naive faith, but a settled trust in God.
There may be a time to fight and a time to flee, but many times we need to stand firm in our trust in the Lord. He loves truth, goodness, and justice more than any one person. He also knows how to keep and protect those who trust in Him above all else.
Make it personal...
Read through the Scripture text again as you consider and answer these questions
How confident are you that God is greater than all the trouble that exists in the world?
What is your tendency when feeling trapped by circumstances—to fly away or stand firm?
Are you willing to trust God with judgment for wrong, when you are wronged?
What situation or circumstance do you need to trust God with more than you are at present?
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