Psalms 121:1 – Except the LORD build the house, they labor in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.
One of the great problems of our day is security. Nations are striving in many ways to try and achieve some measure of safety from those elements, which would enslave them. We as individuals are also concerned about security. We try to save for a “rainy day”. We plan to raise our children in the best possible way, to insure them a place in the world of “tomorrow science”, and we educate them in science and technology so they may contribute to their own well-being as life develops for them. Most of these preparations are for a material world, and certainly these things must be considered and planned for. However, the correct formula for eternal success lies in the statement by the psalmist, quoted above. He tells us that when God is left out of our plans, they are doomed to failure, from the very start. Whether as individuals (houses) or nations (cities), it is not in man that walketh to direct his own steps”. It matters not how elaborate or well-planned our methods of peace and security are laid out. It makes no difference at all whether all nations are included or just a few. The thing of prime importance is upon, whom are we depending as a protector, defender, and deliverer? If we rely on man or any of his devices, we will fail. If we depend on God, and His Word, there can be no failure. We would be wise to “seek the kingdom first” and allow God to furnish the care and protection He has promised to give.
- R. Chism, Beckley Heights BEACON, September 1963
