You have also given me the shield of Your salvation; Your right hand has held me up, Your gentleness has made me great. Psalm 18:35
In Psalm 18, King David pours out his heart in gratitude for the deliverance God provided during his times of distress. He praises the Lord for being his rock, fortress, and deliverer. He is acknowledging that it was God who sustained him in the face of his enemies. The verse in focus, Psalm 18:35, beautifully encapsulates the essence of God’s protection and love for His children.
Imagine standing on a battlefield, surrounded by fierce adversaries. Arrows of doubt, fear, and temptation rain upon you, but you find an invincible shield—the shield of God’s salvation. Just as David was protected from the assaults of Saul and his enemies, we too are shielded by God’s unwavering love and salvation.
In addition to being our shield, God’s gentleness also plays a vital role in our journey of faith. It is not only His mighty power that shapes us but also His tender love and care that molds us into greatness. Just as a skilled potter gently molds clay into a beautiful vessel, God’s gentle guidance enables us to grow and flourish in our faith.
Think of the story of Ruth, a widow who displayed unwavering loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Ruth’s humble and gentle spirit was evident as she gleaned in the fields, and God’s favor shone upon her. In time, she was rewarded with a loving husband and became an integral part of Jesus’ lineage. God’s gentleness transformed Ruth’s life from one of loss and struggle to one of greatness and purpose.
