“But let all who take refuge in you rejoice;
let them ever sing for joy,
and spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may exult in you.
For you bless the righteous, O Lord;
you cover him with favor as with a shield.”
—Psalm 5:11-12 ESV

The previous verses spoke of those who rebel against God and effectively cast themselves out of his presence. These final verses of Psalm 5 speak of those who recognize that God is not oppressive but a refuge.

These people will find joy. They will rejoice. They will find that God covers them “with favor as with a shield.”

These verses teach us a lesson found throughout the Bible: choosing to obey God’s instruction is not an oppressive limitation of freedom but a door that leads us to true joy and liberation.

We can have it the way we want. God lets us choose our path.

But if we take a few moments to think about it, it’s a no-brainer.

After all, a life in God’s presence is the best life out there.

Here is a short prayer to help you invite God into every moment of your day:

Inhale: You are my refuge;
Exhale: I will rejoice.