Trusting God through Every Season of Life (Psalm 71:1-8)

Psalm 71:1-8"In you, Lord, I have taken refuge;    let me never be put to shame.In your righteousness, rescue me and deliver me;    turn your ear to me and save me.Be my rock of refuge,    to which I can always go;give the command to save me,    for you are my rock and my fortress.Deliver me, my God, from the hand of the wicked,    from the grasp of those who are evil and cruel. For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord,    my confidence since my youth.From birth I have relied on you;    you brought me forth from my mother’s womb.    I will ever praise you.I have become a sign to many;    you are my strong refuge.My mouth is filled with your praise,    declaring your splendor all day long." Evening Reflection As the day winds down, Psalm 71 reminds us that no matter what happened today, God is our refuge and strength. We take our refuge in Him, and when we do that (not just say that), we will never be put to shame. He’s our righteous deliverer, steady rock, and home on which we can build our lives. Whether the day was full of tumultuous storms or beaming sunshine, those who place their hope in Him won’t be shaken. The imagery in this Psalm describes God as a God of strength. He delivers us from evildoers and is our rock and fortress. As you well know, a fortress is a safe place, a shelter from the storm. Physically, mentally, and emotionally, He will protect us. All we have to do is trust in Him. Sometimes, trusting God is easy—the sun is shining, and our ducks are all in a row. Others, not so much. It’s on those hard and stormy days that we must remember where we place our hope. Hope isn’t passive, but active. It’s alive and fierce. Even if all that looks like is opening your hands in a posture of surrender, that’s enough for today. When you think about your own life tonight, do you feel steady or shaken? Can you say that you trust God through every season of life, or just the good ones? Where do you place your hope? Psalm 71 reminds us that storms and sunshine will come. But God is faithful in both seasons. It’s up to us to continue trusting Him and believing that He’s who He says He is. From birth, we’ve relied on Him, and we must continue to do so. He’s our strong refuge, and we will praise Him. As you prepare for rest, ask yourself: Do I trust God in every season of life? If you struggle, ask Him for help. He’s faithful to provide. Evening Prayer Dear Jesus,As this day winds down, I surrender every season of my life to you. No matter what comes my way, you are good and faithful. You’re my strong tower and fortress. As I put my hope in you, hold me steady. Tonight, I want to rest in the shelter of your wings. Restore my heart and soul.Amen. Want More? If tonight’s episode blessed you, be sure to follow the show so your next nightly scripture is ready when you are. Scripture quoted by permission.  Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®.  NIV®.  Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica.  All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.