Read Psalm 63
This psalm opens with a simple sentence – “Oh God, you are my God”. Sit and breathe with this statement for a moment. It’s not metaphorical or especially poetic. Little interpretation is required, but it would be entirely sufficient as a devotional of its own. For me, it calls to mind the overwhelmingly comforting notion that,
“The promise is not that God will never allow any evil to come to us, but that no matter what befalls us, we are still beyond genuine harm.” (Dallas Willard)
After the prelude, the rest of verse 1 paints a picture of yearning in the midst of desolation. David is “in a dry and weary land”, his soul “thirsting”, his flesh “fainting”. He feels empty, yet he yearns deeply. Is this “empty but deeply longing” state not one of the spiritually richest places we can be? This is a place where Grace becomes real to us and stands in contrast to the shell it can be when we pay it lip service but go about living like we're our own saviors and providers - like a real life wild animal standing next to a cartoon drawing. I believe this is at least part of what Jesus meant by “Blessed are the poor in spirit."
So where does David turn his reflections in the midst of his yearning?
In verses 2-8, David begins with a reflection on God's holiness and power: “I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory." He then pours out a river of praise ("your steadfast love is better than life") and promises (“I will bless you as long as I live… My soul will be satisfied.”) It's not the certainty of safety or another specific outcome that fills the void expressed in verse 1; it's the mere presence and holiness of God. In the presence of such a God, we truly are beyond the reach of genuine harm.
Thank God for Himself, as He is. Thank Him that because of who He is, you are beyond genuine harm, no matter what circumstances may come to pass.
-- Michael ONeil