By Rev. Keith Howard
“For the Lord God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The Lord will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right.” – Psalm 84:11 (NLT)
I recall when the Holy Spirit revealed this verse to me. At a friend’s first church anniversary in California, he invited me to read the Scripture. It felt so fitting, as my friend had faced trials and needed encouragement.
There are moments in life when I’ve experienced the warmth of God’s presence, like sunlight breaking through a dark morning. Other times, I’ve felt vulnerable, exposed, and uncertain, desperately needing protection. This verse beautifully illustrates that God is the sun that brings life and light and the shield that guards us from harm.
I remember a season of delayed prayers, seeking something I believed was good. When it didn’t come, I struggled to understand. Looking back, I see Jesus’ shield at work, protecting me from what I couldn’t see. Later, He blessed me with something far greater that drew me closer to Him. That was His grace and glory illuminating my life.
This verse teaches us to trust His timing and character. If God withholds something, it’s not an act of unkindness but protection. He promises that “no good thing” will be kept from those who walk with Him. This truth liberates us from striving, worrying, and comparing, allowing us to rest in His goodness, knowing that His sun will rise over our lives and His shield will encompass us.
My friend has celebrated over fifteen years since that scripture reading. Within those fifteen years, he has lost his wife and many more trials he has overcome. He trusted the Son and His shield through it all, and so can you. Don’t give up!
**Prayer:**
Lord, thank You for being both my sun and my shield. Thank You for shining Your light into my life and for protecting me, even when I don’t understand it in the moment. Help me trust that You never withhold any good thing from me. Teach me to walk in Your ways so I can experience the fullness of Your grace and glory. Amen.
