Helper of the helpless

You shame the counsel of the poor, but the LORD is his refuge. Psalms 14:6 (NKJV)

In Psalm Chapter 14, David exposes those who want nothing to do with the Lord. In graphic detail, David characterizes those who resist the reality of God and oppose His truth.

One characteristic is that these folks “shame the counsel of the poor.” In other words, they take advantage of those who are at a disadvantage. When someone has stiff-armed the authority of God, a predatory perspective takes over. They forsake all sense of mercy, and they willingly stomp on those who are downtrodden.

But there’s good news for the poor. David declares that despite the wicked man’s efforts to shame and destroy the disadvantaged, the Lord willingly becomes their refuge. God is a helper of the helpless and a refuge for the refugee. And this single reality radically tips the scales in favor of the poor.

It doesn’t matter how crafty, wealthy, or resourceful the wicked man is. He’s nothing in comparison to God. And when the Lord takes up the cause of those who are helpless, He scatters every scheme against them. With God for them, who can stand against them?

There are two important applications to this truth. First of all, if we’ve been blessed to be able to help those in need, then we ought to prayerfully and gladly join in God’s agenda to assist them.

Secondly, if we find ourselves in need, we must remember that the Lord is our refuge. The temptation is to focus on our circumstances and on those who might be trying to take advantage of us. As long as we do, we’re going to be discouraged and distressed. But when we remind ourselves that God Himself is our Advocate, we’re filled with a confidence that transcends our trials.

Think About It…
What does this passage reveal to me about God?
What does this passage reveal to me about myself?
Based on this, what changes do I need to make?
What is my prayer for today?