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Today’s Scripture reading includes a selection of David’s Psalms written while he was being pursued by King Saul—Psalms 7, 27, 31, 34, and 52. Life brings both trials that tempt us to question and complain, and seasons of blessing that can tempt us to take our eyes off of God and focus on ourselves. These prayers of David serve as centering prayers—they draw us back into faithful responsiveness. Things are never so bad or so good when the faithful response doesn't require anything other than our priroity to focus on God.

Psalm 7

“The Lord judges the peoples; judge me, O Lord, according to my righteousness and according to the integrity that is in me … If a man does not repent, God will whet his sword; he has bent and readied his bow.” —Psalm 7:8, 12

What struck me most about this psalm is how David allows the narrative of his own heart to be laid bare before God—honestly and transparently—for better or worse. He holds himself accountable, trusting God to deal justly with him. We can do the same. When we turn from evil, we can stand with confidence before the only holy and just Judge.

Psalm 27

“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” —Psalm 27:1

David begins this psalm with confidence. I see his confidence originating from his commitment to God’s statutes as his guide. When we obey God, we have no reason to fear. A healthy spiritual rhythm includes regularly asking God to search us—to reveal any hidden sin—so we can walk with assurance before Him.

Psalm 31

“For you are my rock and my fortress; and for your name’s sake you lead me and guide me. You take me out of the net they have hidden for me, for you are my refuge” —Psalm 31:3–4

David demonstrates for us in this psalm that even with the evil that is all around us, we can find rest and peace in God. We can have confidence that God is in control, and He takes care of His own.

Psalm 34

“Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him! … Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all… The Lord redeems the life of his servants; none of those who take refuge in Him will be condemned.” —Psalm 34:8, 19, 22

David counsels anyone desiring something better—anyone who is experiencing something less than ideal—to try God and see how He can change anyone’s life. God promises to see His followers through and give eternity in salvation and not condemnation in death. Taste and see that the Lord is good!

Psalm 52

“Why do you boast of evil, O mighty man? The steadfast love of God endures all the day.” —Psalm 52:1

David writes showing us that there will always be those who do evil and boast in it. Like David, we may feel grief, anger, or disbelief at their actions. But our focus must remain on God. We must trust that He will bring justice—whether through us or without us. Our part is to stay centered on Him and remain faithful.

Takeaway: David didn’t always get it right—and neither do we. But God isn’t looking for perfection. He desires humility and a heart tender toward Him. Trust the Lord with your security and your purpose. If needed, spend time today in self-reflection. Read through these psalms and let your heart be honest before God. Make amends where they need to be made—between you and God, and between you and others. Then, walk confidently and joyfully in the center of God’s will.