Your Shield, Your Refuge

So, twenty years ago, would you have guessed where your life would be at today? For most of us, the answer's a clear no, because things take unexpected turns, don't they? Life's brought us to a place now that we could never have anticipated. And with all the ups and downs you've experienced, doubtless there have been times when things just didn't make sense. Why did that happen? How can that be right? How did I get myself into this situation? Decades ago, when my hopes and dreams lay shattered before me, I was definitely asking those questions. And back then, I could never have predicted that I'd be here with you, doing what I'm doing. But along the way, this is what I've discovered: Psalm 18:30 This God—his way is perfect; the word of the LORD proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him. (ESV) My journey's been messy; yours no doubt too. But looking back on it, I can see that God's way - what He chose for me when I'd made a hash of things, how He dealt with me, the course He charted for me when I finally came to my senses and handed Him the reins - has been flawless; completely beyond reproach. His promises, His wisdom, His power have been tested in my cauldron of experience to the point where I can say without equivocation that His Word is true. And no matter what I had to go through (and some of it was ugly, some of it was painful, some of it I wouldn't wish upon my worst enemy) He protected me; He became my refuge; He brought me safely to this point to be with you. Because that's who God is … for me, and for you. And that's His Word. Fresh … for you … today.