A Shelter in The Time of Storms

Psalm 61:1-8

Introduction

When problems arise•Universal (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)•“Take it out on the Lord?”

How should we cope?•Ask a worldly person?•Look at David’s solution

The Problem (v. 1)

Not certain of the occasion•Being hunted by Saul? (1 Samuel 18:10)

•Absalom’s rebellion? (2 Samuel 15)

•Probably worse than what we face

The Problem (v. 1)

Severe •“Cried” unto the Lord•Severe emotional praying•Overwhelmed by grief•Cried from the end of the earth•Cut off from Jerusalem?

The Problem (v. 1)

Our problems•As severe as David’s?•As severe as Job’s?•We can handle them

Solution (vv. 2, 3)

Where to we go for help?•Drugs and alcohol•Professionals may help some•“Where Could I Go But To The Lord?”

Solution (vv. 2, 3)

Prayer•God’s heart is open to His own (v. 2; Hebrews 5:7; 1 Peter 3:12)

•Draws us closer (James 2:1-4, 12)

•“Does Jesus Care?” (Philippians 4:6; 1 Peter 5:7)

Solution (vv. 2, 3)

Expected help from God•Excellent “track record”•Delivered from a lion, Goliath, etc.•Delivered Peter (Acts 12:11)•He will deliver us (2 Corinthians 12:9, 10)

Solution (vv. 2, 3)

Have a proper concept of God•“Rock That Is Higher Than I” (v. 3)

•A shelter from the storms of life (Matthew 11:28-30)

•A strong tower, a place of protection

Trust In God (vv. 4-8)

His ability•Provide safe dwelling (vv. 4-6)•Refuge

Constant•Make him abide forever (vv. 7, 8)•Pay his vows everyday

Trust In God (vv. 4-8)

How dependable are we?•Is yours a “fire escape religion?”•Do we cling to “the rock?”•“Safe In The Arms of Jesus?”

Conclusion

How are you doing? Are you walking with God daily?