Psalm 5.11
In writing Psalm 5.11, David used a creative literary technique. Using a device called parallelism, he stated in three distinct, yet correspondent phrases, one riveting truth. God is always faithful to protect and provide for his people, granting to them reason for rejoicing.
The psalmist wrote of three kinds of people. First, he spoke of those who "take refuge" in the Lord. "To take or seek refuge" is the translation of a word with the connotation of finding shade under a tree. The significance of that fact will become evident as the following two words are considered. Nonetheless, we should understand the simple fact that shade brings relief and protection from the sun.
Next, David described the one who seeks "shelter". The word "shelter" in Hebrew means "to be covered, to be screened" by a tree. At times, trees provide not only shelter from the sun, but a screen from blowing winds. In some areas of America, tree lines still provide protection to farm lands, screening tilled land from winds that could whisk away the vital, nutrient-rich topsoil.
David was convinced of God’s reliability as a resort for the oppressed. He state that truth in speaking of those who "love your name." In Scripture, one’s name was his reputation, his true character. To pray "in Jesus’ name," is to pray in a way consistent with Jesus’ character; to pray as Jesus would pray. So, to love God’s name is far more than an emotional attachment to the word Yahweh. To love the name of the Lord is to love who he is. The word for love is "to delight in." We find happiness and joy when we find God to be a screening, soothing shade.
Generally in the Psalms, refuge and shelter are cast in terms of defensive battlements within which one could find safety when under assault from an enemy. Psalm 18.2 states, "The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." No foe has the strength to ascend the sheer heights of the rock of our salvation, or the power to successfully storm the secure battlements of our God.
In Psalm 5.11, the picture is quite different. God is a cool shade, an overshadowing tree that blocks out the stinging, blistering rays of evil’s blowing winds and debilitating heat. Evil and oppression, anger and anxiety, fatigue and frustration all devitalize. We need a refuge, a shelter. We often toil in the energy-sapping heat of life’s injustices. Tragedy and turmoil drain our energy. Without relief, we become emotionally drained and lose our joy. Just as with those who toil in the sun’s rays, when we find shade, we find rest and renewal. Our spirits soar, our joy is refreshed. God’s faithfulness to be our shade results in his being our source of joy.
Hardly does one find a verse with a greater concentration of truth about God’s reliable care than Psalm 5.11. God had proven himself over and over to David as a refuge and a shelter. For David, the Lord had ultimate credibility; God was believable. Repeatedly, God has shown his concern for his people; without fail, the Lord has rescued individuals in their time of need. Sometimes, all a person needs is a respite from the wearying toils of the day. In the coolness of the shade of God’s care and concern, we find that rest.
Peter stated, "Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." Our concerns, regardless of how small and insignificant they might seem, are of personal to God. He will provide what we need.
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