But you, O Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts up my head. Psalms 3:3 NRSV
Have you ever noticed the body language of an athlete who loses? You will likely see their shoulders and head sag in response to the defeat. The same actions happen when we are ashamed or embarrassed. Our bodies instinctually react to these emotions by hanging our heads.
In Psalm 3, David recounts a time of fear when his son Absolom ousted David from the throne. (2 Sam 15-18) David, in fear for his life, flees Jerusalem into the wilderness. Of course, the story does not end with David's permanent defeat but his restoration to the throne. "Deliverance belongs to the Lord; may your blessing be on your people!" (Ps 3:8)
Though we sometimes hang our heads feeling ashamed, defeated, or embarrassed, that need not be the end. Like David, we can hold our heads high when we trust God. In Him, we find the strength to conquer defeat, the courage to face embarrassment, and forgiveness for our shame.
God, we thank you for your deliverance. In you, we can hold our heads high and rejoice in your freedom. You have delivered us from sin and death. Forgive us our sins, and renew your Spirit within us to face what is to come. We pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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