O Lord my God, in you I take refuge; save me from all my pursuers, and deliver me. Psalm 7:1. 

When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you at that time. Matthew 10: 19.

Two verses today, both about people who might be in, or getting into, some trouble. Actually being in physical danger. David is often in trouble and being pursued by enemies. Many of the Psalms attributed to him are asking for help. There he is, the king, with power and riches and he still has all these worries. Then, he turns to God and asks for His help, fully trusting in God’ promises.

Then we have the situation in Matthew chapter 10. , Jesus is sending out the disciples with power to heal and cast out demons and preach about the kingdom of heaven. Along with this, He needs to warn them about what they might encounter. All will not be wonderful with people happy for the healing. There will be many who are unhappy and will persecute those same disciples. When they are arrested and handed over – they will need to say something. What to say? Jesus says no worries. The words you need will be given to you just as they are given to us when needed.

God delivered David, saved him from his pursuers so he could lead the people. Jesus promises the disciples that when accused of wrong doing, as they carry out their tasks,  they will be given the words they need to speak. We too may encounter situations where we need to speak up and trust in God to provide the words we need. Where we need rescue from our pursuers, whether other people or situations. We can trust God to deliver us too.   

O Lord, thank you for delivering us from all our enemies. Please forgive us for trying to save ourselves through our own understanding or cleverness. Watch over our steps—guide and keep us safe in all we do. When our worry about what to say overcomes us, send your spirit to give us the words we need to speak. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Chris Gabel

Ministries
Teaching Mission Party