Day 228 The God Who Delivers and Defends

The God Who Delivers and Defends

by Torrie Slaughter

Reading Focus: Psalm 34:11–22

Distraction doesn’t always come in the form of temptation—it can also arrive in the form of fear, injustice, or personal pain. Psalm 34:11–22 reminds us that those who remain close to God, walking in reverence and righteousness, will experience His deliverance, His protection, and His justice.

“Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD.” (v. 11)
God’s invitation here is personal and tender. He calls us in close—not to terrify us, but to teach us what it means to live in reverence of His holiness. This kind of fear deepens devotion, keeping our eyes on Him and our hearts aligned with His ways.

“Keep your tongue from evil… turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” (vv. 13–14)
This is faith in action. Devotion without distraction doesn’t just avoid sin—it actively pursues good and chases after peace. Our words and choices become part of the rebuilding work, strengthening what God has entrusted to us.

“The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry.” (v. 15)
Here is the comfort that steadies us: God sees, God hears, and God cares. His attention is fixed on those who live in right relationship with Him, even when life feels like it’s unraveling.

“The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.” (v. 17)
Deliverance doesn’t mean we avoid every hardship—it means we never face them alone. God’s rescue is certain, even if it comes in a different way or timing than we imagined.

“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (v. 18)
When life breaks us down, God moves in closer. His nearness becomes our shelter, and His comfort becomes the strength that allows us to remain.

“He protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken.” (v. 20)
This prophetic promise overflows into the New Testament at the cross of Christ. It’s a reminder that God’s protection is purposeful—He knows how to preserve what matters most for His plan to be fulfilled.

“The LORD will rescue his servants; no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.” (v. 22)
This is the anchor point: those who take refuge in the Lord will not be put to shame. In Him, we find deliverance, protection, and eternal security.

Psalm 34:11–22 invites us to live with intentional reverence, to guard our words, to actively seek peace, and to trust God’s deliverance in every battle. This is how we rebuild with courage and remain without distraction.

Prayer:
Lord, teach me the fear of the Lord that keeps my heart anchored in You. Guard my words, guide my actions, and make me a seeker of peace. When fear, pain, or injustice threaten to distract me, remind me that You are my Deliverer and Defender. Keep me close to Your heart, and help me remain faithful in every season. In Jesus’ name, Amen.