Scripture: “Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge.” – Psalm 16:1
Devotional
There was a night when Kwame lay wide awake, staring at the ceiling of his single-room apartment in Accra. The power had gone out again, and with it, the comfort of light and the hum of his fan. Outside, shouts echoed through the alleyways—arguments, barking dogs, and the steady thud of loud music from a nearby drinking spot. But it was not just the noise that kept him up. His phone buzzed with messages about layoffs at the office. His landlord had hinted at a rent increase. And deep down, he felt a growing fear about what tomorrow might hold.
He reached for his Bible, the one his mother had given him when he left home. It fell open to Psalm 16. The first verse caught his eye: “Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge.”
In that moment, something shifted. He whispered the verse again, slower this time, letting each word soak into his anxious heart.
We all have moments like Kwame’s. Some face job insecurity. Others wrestle with the pain of betrayal or fear for a loved one’s safety. Some are overwhelmed by the constant noise of the world or the silence of their own unanswered prayers. In all of this, Psalm 16:1 offers more than just poetic comfort, it offers a place to run.
The word “refuge” in Scripture often paints the image of a strong shelter during a storm. In ancient Israel, cities of refuge were places where people could flee for protection. In our time, we may not run to a literal fortress, but we can run to the presence of God. He invites us to find rest, even when the world around us is spinning out of control.
Jesus Himself, while facing betrayal, rejection, and even death, often withdrew to quiet places to pray. His refuge was His Father. When the storm raged around Him, He remained anchored in trust.
You can do the same. You do not need a perfect prayer or a fancy setting. Just your honest heart. Say, “Lord, I feel unsafe. I do not know what will happen next, but I choose to trust you.” Let God’s Word be your safe place.
In Isaiah 26:3, we are told, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” This is not a promise of a life without trouble, but of a heart anchored in peace no matter the storm.
As you go through your day, take moments to pause and pray. When fear creeps in, whisper Psalm 16:1. Write it on a sticky note. Say it out loud. Let it be your shield when life feels uncertain.
God is not distant. He sees your sleepless nights, your whispered prayers, your silent battles. And He is near, closer than your breath, stronger than your fear, and faithful to keep you in perfect peace when you run to Him.
Prayer
Lord, I run to you today. When I feel overwhelmed and uncertain, remind me that you are my safe place. Keep me rooted in your love and anchored in your peace. Amen.
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