I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips.
I will glory in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.
I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.
This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. Fear the Lord, you his holy people, for those who fear him lack nothing.
The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.

This is such a powerful and encouraging Psalm of David. Only someone who has been greatly afflicted can call the “afflicted others” to rejoice and praise God, and have their respect. David was such a man, familiar with hardship and pain.

And what David found throughout his life, is that in all circumstances it is wise to extol and praise God.

Have you ever been “covered in shame”? I have. I have fallen from God and sinned in the past. But when I look to God, repent, and ask him to forgive my sins — he does. He cleanses my heart and makes me new again. Then my face can radiate with his goodness and great love!

David was not always poor, but at times he was. Am I in need of resources, work, or shelter and food? I can cry out to God and he will hear me. He will provide.

Fearing God is a daily discipline that sets aside our personal ambitions, fears, and rights and lays them at the foot of the cross. I then embrace Jesus my Savior and receive all of the good gifts he wants to give me — his peace, joy, patience, self-control, joy, kindness, resilience, forgiveness, humility, faithfulness, etc.

This is a great promise we gain by being spiritually disciplined in this way: The angel of the Lord ENCAMPS around us. We are protected and safe in our souls.

Every time I truly dwell with God I receive his goodness! And he provides for my needs each day.

I have really never seen a starving lion, though I imagine it may happen at times.They are at the top of the food chain in the jungle. I think David’s point is … even lions who are swift, powerful, and oh-so-deadly, will go hungry before God’s servants who fear him. So true!

Lord, thank you for this great psalm which encourages us to stay faithful. I feel your energy and strength even though I am a bit sick today! You have plans for me that I cannot even dream of or imagine. You provide for me in every way, every day. Help me to reach out to you and your people more!