(11:1) David Trusts the Lord - David was forced to flee for safety several times. Being God's anointed king did not make him immune to injustice or hatred from Saul and others. He may have written this psalm when Saul was hunting him (1 Samuel 18-31) or during the days of Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 15-18). In both instances, David fled, but not as if all was lost. He knew God was in control. While David wisely avoided trouble, he did not fearfully run away from his troubles,

(11:4) Peace in the Midst of a Storm - Here, it seems as though David was encountering those who were advising him to run from his enemies. David's faith contrasted dramatically with the fear of the advisers who were telling him to flee. Faith in God keeps us from losing hope and helps us resist fear. David's advisers were afraid because they saw only frightening circumstances and crumbling foundations. David was comforted and optimistic because he knew God was greater than anything his enemies could bring against him (7:10; 16:1; 31:2-3).

(11:4) A Step of Faith - Trusting means more than simply believing. It means placing our full confidence in God and tying all our hopes to his care for us. When we do this, we can rest and relax in his guidance. For David, this was a life-and-death commitment. Many Christians today find themselves in similar circumstances. We can easily trust God when life is going well. It's much harder to do so during the dark and dangerous times when our trust in God is put to the test. Trust in God's guidance, comfort, and protection when you experience relatively manageable crises so that when the harder times come your trust in him will be unwavering.

(11:4) God is in Control - When the foundations are shaking and you wish you could hide, remember that God is still in control. His power is not diminished by any turn of events. What foundations do you see shaking? Political and social norms are always changing fast. Family foundations are constantly being attacked. You may feel like your whole world is falling apart. Be assured that nothing happens without God's knowledge and permission. When you feel like running away, run to God. He will restore justice and goodness on the earth in his good timing.

(11:5) Allow Difficult Circumstances to Help You Grow - God does not shield believers from difficult circumstances, but he tries (or tests) both the righteous and the wicked. For some, God's tests become a refining fire, while for others, they become an incinerator for destruction. Don't ignore or defy the tests and challenges that come your way. Use them as opportunities for you to grow