"But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all Thy works." (Psalm 73:28)
Making God our stronghold and recounting all of His actions from the previous year is the best resolution I can think of in the season of New Year's resolutions. In Psalm 73:28, the word "trust" [refuge] refers to safety from the elements or peril. The reality is that there will be storms in the upcoming year, both literally and figuratively. There will be challenges for each of us. Each of us will experience some form of suffering. We'll all require a safe haven. The only remaining issue is: where—or to whom—will we turn for safety and consolation when such difficulties arise?
What if we, as God's people, resolved to only turn to Him as our refuge? What if finding solace and safety in God alone was our ultimate purpose in life? How would that alter our lives? If He were given the proper place in our lives, how much more would fall into place? If we stopped relying on other people to make us happy, our relationships would improve. If we would turn to Him with our pains and disappointments instead of using drink, drugs, or comfort food to numb the pain, our health would improve. If we stopped attempting to buy happiness by spending money and instead trusted Him with a tithe, our financial condition would improve. The list is endless. The presence of God and the safety of His Name have the power to transform everything.
In Psalm 73:28, I couldn't help but observe the obvious result of making God our refuge. I will tell of all God's works if He is my refuge and sanctuary. Being close to God naturally leads to evangelism. The more we pursue God, the more we learn about Him. We love Him more and more as we learn more about Him. The more we love Him, the more we talk about Him, just like in any other relationship.
Prayer: "I vow to make God my safe haven in the coming year. Remind me to seek refuge from life's storms only in You and in You alone. I will then tell others about everything You have done for me. In the name of Jesus, Amen!"
