Psalm 37
"The salvation/help/deliverance (תְּשׁוּעָה) of the righteous (צַדִּיק) is from Yahweh. He is their mountain stronghold/refuge/fortress (מָעוֹז) in the time of trouble/distress/anxiety (צָרָה). Yahweh helps them and delivers them. He delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him." - Psalm 37:39-40
Psalm 37 is so beautiful and encouraging. Every verse speaks to our hearts and reminds us that it is worth being on God's side, despite the struggles we go through. The righteous will come out on top. Good will triumph over evil.
Some in our church who wish to refrain from the Covid vaccine are now in danger of losing their jobs. I am particularly concerned about one family. The mum, a Maori woman, works at a preschool. She is the kindest, sweetest person. She loves her family and really cares about people. She now may lose her job, simply for exercising her choice about her own health, a choice that is supposed to be protected by the New Zealand Bill of Rights. Will this family be able to make it financially? With inflation happening, the cost of rent and basic necessities is significantly increasing. How will this family get by?
Psalm 37 has the answer.
God is their salvation. He is their stronghold in their time of distress. He will deliver them. Our church will come around them and help them. We will band together as disciples of Jesus. God has got our back. We'll get through this together.
Father, I pray for this family this morning. I pray that you will give success to this mum's request for a religious exemption. See her heart, and may she gain favour from her employer. May our government allow us the freedom to make our own healthcare choices without interference. But if not, provide for our needs anyway. May we look out for one another. May we ensure everyone in our church community is provided for. Bring us to the other side of this, Lord. Teach us to rely on you. You are our mountain stronghold, and we choose to take shelter in you. In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jeff Coleman