Psalm 34 - 8.27.24
SCRIPTURE: Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. Psalm 34:8
OBSERVATION: David had just escaped from a dangerous situation before the Philistine King Abimelek. David writes and praises the Lord, knowing it was all the Lord’s doing in protecting him and saving him. He wrote “Taste” but it’s not about eating or drinking. Taste is about experiencing everything of the Lord, immersing in His word, in prayer, living life in the Lord. He knows that by “tasting” that everyone would see that the Lord is good.
When in danger, we would all seek refuge where we are assured protection, just like a child runs to a parent when they feel scared. The refuge would be a place of comfort from what we fear or are being attacked or accused. David says the person who seeks refuge in the Lord is blessed. He knows this from his experiences with Saul who was trying to kill him, and then the Philistine King Abimelek.
APPLICATION: I love how David used “taste” in this Psalm. Food is always a good way to help understand things a little deeper especially since food is a huge part of our life. When we taste something, and it is good, we enjoy the benefits - it’s yummy and it satisfies our hunger. We can see that by the act of tasting God, we will enjoy the benefits of his goodness through the Word and connecting with God in prayer. You will never come away from a deep immersion in God without tasting His goodness.
How sweet to know that when we take refuge in God, we are the ones who are blessed. When you imagine this process, it begins with being in trouble for one reason or another yet we’re being blessed by running to God and taking refuge. We’re the ones in trouble and needing help yet we’re being blessed? That’s amazing to me!
What a huge comfort in knowing that we are blessed by taking refuge in God. Why are we being blessed by taking refuge in God? I think it’s because when we run to Him and take refuge, we are physically acknowledging He’s the great protector, the one who holds everything together and the one who can keep us from harm. We are acknowledging His greatness and His goodness, and His ability to protect us when we take refuge in him. We are showing that God is the one and only true God. Just like a father who loves when a child seeks comfort or protection in a difficult time, God is the same and then wants to bless us when we seek refuge in him.
David knew a lot about being in times of trouble and taking refuge in God. He knew of God’s goodness and faithfulness which means he was blessed. In all circumstances, David always praised God and knew God is the one who is good. God’s blessings are evident in:
His comfort: Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort - 2 Corinthians 1:3
His Word: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path – Psalm 119:105
His protection: “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” - Psalm 91:1-2
While I’ve been recovering from COVID (which has been really rough), I’m blessed in knowing that God is my refuge. I’m thankful for our wonderful church family who have blessed us with many prayers and bringing us food. Thank you all! God is good in all circumstances, even while battling a sickness.
PRAYER: Thank you Lord for being so good. All I need to do is rest in your refuge and I am blessed. Help me, Lord, when I feel scared or concerned about anything in life. At those moments, I want to only run to you, Lord, because you are my refuge. You are the one who holds everything together and has a plan. Knowing this brings me comfort and encouragement because you are so good. I am truly blessed. Amen
- Mary Oberg
