“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name will trust in you, for you Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you. Sing praises to the Lord, enthroned in Zion; proclaim among the nations what He has done.”       (Psalm 9: 9 – 11)

A wonderful word of reassurance from God’s word today. Oppression can come in many ways and from many directions. It can come from people, from governments, sometimes even from within families, communities and social groupings where ordinarily we might feel safe and free from the forces of oppression. Sometimes oppression comes from circumstances as we find ourselves seemingly hemmed in and helpless in the face of events over which we have no control. Where is God in all this? The Psalmist reminds us of God’s presence, His strength and His faithfulness to us no matter what may be going on in our lives. He is the one who will never forsake us. His love and care go on and on through everything. Truly He is the one to be praised and worshipped. He is the one whose message of forgiveness and salvation we take to the world.