By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
Psalm 3:1-3 Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! Many are saying of me, “God will not deliver him.” But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.” – NIV
The psalms are free and honest expressions of the heart to God. God encourages us to be free as we pour out what’s within to Him. Here, David acknowledges before God how many were against him, speaking ill of him and downplaying his trust in God. That’s what others said. But David reaffirmed who God was to him despite what others said; a shield around him, his glory and the lifter of his head.
People will always say what they think and wish about us. Some are out of good motives, and others out of evil intentions. But what we know and believe about the faithfulness of God to us matters most. It should be settled in us that God is our shield of protection all around, our glory and lifter of our heads. A bowed head depicts shame, defeat, hopelessness and lack of confidence. When God lifts our heads, He is giving us assurance of His protection, glory and presence.
The opinions and comments of others can drain confidence and strength out of us. Many have been crushed and given up on life because of what they heard. As we acknowledge God, He takes away shame, brightens our face and we face life confidently despite those who hate and don’t wish us well. He makes us walk with our heads high and enjoy life under His unfailing care and love as we trust Him. May He lift your bowed head and cheer you up!
Psalm 27:1-3 “The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.”
Shalom children of God.