Day 223 Start with the Burden

Start with the Burden

by Torrie Slaughter

Reading Focus: Psalm 31:19–24

When the work of rebuilding begins, the enemy will try to distract you with fear, false accusations, or feelings of abandonment. Psalm 31 reminds us that our devotion is sustained by the goodness and shelter of God, not the noise around us.

Psalm 31:19–24 overflows with gratitude and confidence in the Lord’s steadfast love. David’s words invite us to fix our eyes—not on the chaos around us—but on the God who guards, preserves, and strengthens His people.

“How abundant are the good things that you have stored up for those who fear you…” (v. 19)
God’s blessings are not scarce. They’re stored up, ready to be poured out on those who honor Him. In seasons where lack and need dominate the headlines of our lives, this verse reminds us that heaven’s storehouse is never empty. Our role is to remain in awe of Him and take refuge under His covering, trusting that His provision will be visible to others as a testimony of His faithfulness.

“In the shelter of your presence you hide them…” (v. 20)
Here’s the picture: God’s presence is not just a place to visit—it’s a fortress. When we dwell with Him, the intrigue, gossip, and accusations of others lose their power. This isn’t about living in denial of opposition—it’s about living so rooted in God’s protection that external noise cannot derail our purpose.

“Praise be to the Lord, for he showed me the wonders of his love when I was in a city under siege.” (v. 21)
David worships from the middle of the pressure. Even when surrounded, he sees the wonders of God’s love. It’s a reminder that our praise should not be delayed until the walls are rebuilt—praise is part of the building process.

“In my alarm I said, ‘I am cut off from your sight!’ Yet you heard my cry…” (v. 22)
David admits his fear and doubt, but quickly testifies to God’s faithfulness. We’ve all been here—feeling unseen, unheard, or forgotten. But this verse dismantles that lie: God hears every cry for mercy, even when our emotions insist otherwise.

“Love the Lord, all His faithful people!” (v. 23)
This is both a rallying cry and a caution. Devotion to God will be rewarded with preservation; pride will be met with resistance. Remaining faithful isn’t passive—it’s a choice to love God with our loyalty and humility.

“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.” (v. 24)
This closing line is a charge to the builders, the leaders, and the weary: draw your strength from the hope you have in the Lord, not from the progress you see in the moment.

Psalm 31 calls us to a devotion that refuses to be distracted by fear, pressure, or pride. In God’s shelter, we find both the courage to rebuild and the resolve to remain.

Prayer:
Father, thank You for being our refuge and our strength. In moments when the work feels heavy and distractions are loud, remind us of Your abundant goodness. Hide us in Your presence, preserve our devotion, and keep our hearts humble. Strengthen our hands for the work You’ve called us to, and fill us with courage to remain faithful until the task is complete. In Jesus’ name, Amen.