The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1 KJV
In this Psalm, David confidently proclaims that the Lord is his light, salvation, and the strength of his life. Also, he faithfully indicates his fearlessness. With God on his side, David felt strong and confident in his safety. Although surrounded by enemies, he declares in Psalm 27:2, “When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall. NIV”
In biblical text, light is a metaphor for truth and the good things of God. By calling the Lord his light, David relates to us that God’s word directs his attitude and behavior. It indicates that David drew comfort and received guidance from God himself. David’s faith, joy, and understanding came directly from his relationship with the Lord.
Interestingly, David spoke of God as his salvation. As a flawed human, David needed the saving grace of God. Well before New Testament times, David knew the Lord as his redeemer. In battle and in overcoming sin, David knew God as we know Christ. He knew the Creator as deliverer and Savior. Additionally, rather than take credit for his accomplishments, he joyously gave the glory to God.
The Lord Is a Strong Tower
The great king also knew the Lord as his strength. David’s son Solomon recorded his understanding of the protection we receive from seeking God and living in obedience to his word in Proverbs 18:10 saying, “The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it and are safe. KJV” As Christians, we too run to the Lord for safety and security.
When fear comes, do what David did. Call on the name of the Lord! Say, as David did, “the Lord is my light.” Remember the words of Jesus from John 14:27 in which the Lord says, “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, I give to you. Don’t let your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful. WEB” Peace and fearlessness demonstrate our firm faith in God’s ability and willingness to deliver us from potential danger.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the encouraging words of your holy scripture. Just as with David, you are my strength and my salvation. Let your word light my way to eternity in heaven with you. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The Light Has Come
