The Plumbline

Pushed to the wall, I called to God; from the wide-open spaces, he answered. God’s now at my side and I’m not afraid; who would dare lay a hand on me? God’s my strong champion; I flick off my enemies like flies. Far better to take refuge in God than trust in people; Far better to take refuge in God than trust in celebrities. (Psalm 119:5-9 MSG) Have you been thinking that life has 'pushed you to the wall'? As a youngster, there were a couple of times when some bullies pushed me to the wall. I was scared and intimidated by their actions, but I did my best not to show that on the outside. I tried to portray myself as 'strong' and 'tough' in my own way, but I did a miserable job of actually 'standing strong' when push came to shove. I wanted so much to call out for a teacher to come to my rescue, but I had to appear 'tough', so I just took it. When we feel 'hemmed in' by life's challenges, it easy to feel like there is nowhere to turn, b...

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. (Psalm 46:1) Have you ever needed to take refuge in the midst of a storm? How about in the midst of a huge battle? Growing up in Arizona, monsoon season hits each summer, bringing these huge winds, walls of dust for miles and miles, and some pretty terrifying thunder and lightning to boot. As a wee lass, I would feel the winds picking up, but I would play on because nothing could distract me from my play. Then all of a sudden, the skies would rumble and roar, and that peace I had felt was no more! I'd call out for mom, run quickly to the fence line between my friend's home and ours, standing there waiting. Waiting for what? For those 'rescuing arms' of mom's that would reach over that fence to lift me to safety. As soon as she had me safely over the fence, all was well, for I knew I was going to be 'sheltered' from the worst of the storm and safe in her care. I wonder how many times we...