LIVING WORD DEVOTIONAL
By Pastor Mensa Otabil
 
Thursday 29th January 2026

A REFUGE FOR THE OPPRESSED

Scripture Reading: Psalm 9
 
The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, A refuge in times of trouble.” And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You. Psalm 9:9-10
 
The word "fortress" occurs often in the Psalms as a metaphor for God’s protection. The word refuge means security and protection in a high, safe place of retreat; a shelter from danger.
 
Although God created the world and transcends it, He is still actively involved and aware of what happens on earth. He takes an interest in the lives of His people.
 
God is a refuge for the oppressed.

God is not oblivious to the plight of the oppressed in society. The oppressed are powerless people who are crushed, exploited, and discriminated against, whose only hope is the Lord. These are “people who are pushed down” or “people whose necks are held down by others.” God is a fortress for the afflicted.
 
The afflicted and the oppressed, those who are most frequently ignored or abused by human judgment, are championed by the righteous Judge.

God is a refuge in times of trouble.

 Life on earth has different times and seasons. One of those times is what the psalmist calls ‘times of trouble’. There is comfort in knowing that these moments of trouble and difficulty are not permanent. As there are times of trouble, there are also times of God’s deliverance.

God does not forsake those who seek Him.

God has a track record in delivering the afflicted and because he has not let down those who have come to him for help, this breeds confidence in those who know him.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, you are my ever-present help in times of trouble.  I know you will never forsake me. In Jesus’ name, Amen!