The Lodestar

The confidence that the Lord answers prayers makes every step firm in our journey. The psalmist has experienced the Lord in his life: "Blessed be the LORD! For he has heard the voice of my pleas for mercy" (Psa 28:6).

Experiencing the Lord's goodness reveals more about the divine character, strengthening our relationship with the Lord. The psalmist declares that God's protection and presence in his life are the secret of his confidence.

The Lord stops everything hurled at us so that we inch forward with the assurance of his protection. Believing that the Lord is our shield is a powerful thought. In this psalm, the shield is not a hand-held weapon for soldiers in sword fights but a tall cover that a “shield bearer” carries in front of the soldier to protect him from arrows and stones (1 Sam 17:7). In poetry, it is another word for “shield-bearer.”

This confidence leads us to trust the Lord more, leading to a deeper faith: “In him my heart trusts, and I am helped.” It also inspires us to worship the “Shield.” The psalmist has surrendered this poem at the Shield’s feet: “My heart exults, and with my song, I give thanks to him.” Worship issuing from a deeper trust in God, “our shield and deliverer,” has no match.

Today, let the psalmist’s testimony stir your heart. Reflect on the moments when the Lord has heard your cries and answered with mercy. Recall the times He stood between you and the storm, shielding you from harm. Then, take a step forward—not in fear, but in faith.

Pray boldly, knowing your voice reaches heaven. Journal your experiences of God's protection and provision. Worship with gratitude, offering your song at the feet of your Shield. Share your story so that others may find courage in your confidence.

Let your trust in the Lord be your testimony. Walk today with the assurance that the Shield goes before you.