Over these past three weeks, one verse has occupied my heart and mind. It is one of my favorite verses in all of Scriptoure, Psalm 34:8: Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.
As I look at all that is happening in nation, in the United States and around the world, the words of this verse rise above all the chaos we have seen in recent months -- the bomb blast in Beirut, the devestation of hurricanes and floods, the senseless loss of lives, the violence and protests and the staggering losses from a global pandemic. I hear the fear and cries of desparation in the voices of those who have lost their jobs, who are facing financial hardship, from the homeless, the addicted and some many that are grieving. Where do we turn to find a measure of peace and rest for our bodies, our minds and our souls?
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. (Psalm 34:8)
For those who are feeling overwhelmed, uncertain and afraid, taste and see, and you will discover their is One who is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). To those who are grieiving, He is the the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3). To weary He is our our source of rest. Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28).
For those who feel trapped, He is our way out, our way forward. This is what the Lord says...Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God...you are precious and honored in my sight...love you. (Isaiah 43:1-4)
To hurting world, God says, taste and see, and you will discover that I am good. To those who wonder if there is a way out of this mess, God says, taste and see, and you will discover a better way than the way of despair. Put your trust in Me and you will find peace and rest and hope.
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. (Psalm 34:8)