Always Go Up

"Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer.

From the ends of the earth I call to you,

I call as my heart grows faint;

Lead me to the rock that is higher than I."

Psalm 61:1-2

This Scripture verse is one of the first ones I was directed to as a new Christian. I called my sister for emotional support, and her husband said to read Psalm 61.

"The Rock. The psalm conveys a desire for elevation, asking God to 'lead me to the rock that is higher than I.' Here, the metaphor of the rock signifies divine stability, safety, and strength—elements that are essential for overcoming life's challenges. The rock represents God Himself, who provides refuge and protection." thebiblesays.com  

David knew there would be times when his heart was overwhelmed. In those moments he needed a place of stability, a place above himself and someone to lead him.

I've needed this Rock my times as I've walked with God. Through sorrow, disappointment, sadness and hurt, I've gone to Psalm 61 and read those words directing me to the Rock. Reassuring me that my God was there, will always be there and I could rest in Him.

"This means the Rock that is too high for me, the Rock that I cannot reach unaided . . . And just Who is that Rock? This Rock is Christ. For ancient Israel, the Rock was a symbol of the love and protection of God, a figure of the security, serenity and protection provided for the believer by the Lord. For this generation, 'Our Lord Jesus Christ is the true Rock for human souls.'" Coffman’s Commentaries on the Bible

Our Rock is our one true defense and refuge where we will be lifted up and enabled to bear rough times. It's so easy to forget to call on God when we're overwhelmed with hard times. Yet, He is the only One who can get us through those hard times. 

My sister and her husband prayed for me for five years after they were saved. And I continue to be encouraged by them. I will always be thankful to them for leading me to this Scripture verse when I was a new Christian.

"Christ is the Rock on which the Christian church is built; and of the streams that issue therefrom, all believers drink, and are refreshed. It typified the sacred influences of the Holy Spirit, as given to believers through Christ."

Matthew Henry

By His Grace . . .