Psalm 73:28
I never put much thought into the impact of nearness until recently. Over the past six months, my wife and I have transitioned into the empty-nester phase of life as our youngest son went off to college. The early part of the transition was fun and exciting as we started to have a bit more time for the two of us. There were fewer activities to navigate, less managing curfews, and a dramatically lower grocery bill.
However, as time has passed, we have wrestled with our sons being away. We miss them and often look for ways to get together. There is something about having them near that brings a sense of peace and comfort.
These words describe a similar sense we may experience when God is near, however, in Psalm 73:28 the topic of nearness goes deeper and should more profoundly impact how we respond.
In Psalm 73:28, Asaph writes, “But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord God
my refuge that I may tell of all his works.”
I can’t think of many Christians who would disagree with the idea that having God near is a good thing. However, in this verse, we read about a deeper level of dependence and a compelling call to action as the output of the nearness of God.
The nearness of God brings about a deeper dependence on Him as we make Him our refuge. The word refuge is more than just a place of escape. The King James translation uses the word, “trust” which means a literal shelter or a hope. When we make God our refuge, we are stepping into His presence and trusting Him with everything.
In Psalm 46:1, God is our refuge and strength. He is more than a place of shelter as He is also the source of power to navigate every situation. When God becomes our refuge, we are protected and empowered to act.
In the last part of the Psalm 73:28 verse, we get a clear view of the purpose of making God our refuge. We are to tell of all His works. It’s tempting to seek the Lord as our refuge and wait until things pass. But Asaph challenges us to do something. Look for opportunities to tell of all that God is doing. Share the way He brought peace into your life in tough times. Let others know the way He provided for you when you needed it.
Just like Asaph, the nearness of God is our good and we have the opportunity to embrace Him as a refuge and strength so that others can hear about the wonderous works He does.
Don’t miss the opportunity to boldly proclaim the active work of the living God in your life.
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