“For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favor wilt thou compass him as with a shield.”
Psalm 5:12
The word “compass” has a definition that may be less familiar: “to hem in; surround; encircle.” In prison we are surrounded, or compassed, by bad influences. Many people here do not know the Lord and often pursue negative behaviors to find purpose and direction. In the immediate, negative actions may feel empowering and satisfying. But in the end, they will lead to pain and despair, or sometimes even to poor health and isolation.
God’s Word gives us a different direction, something far better to surround or compass us. A path toward a righteous and living God may seem hard, but it leads to good in the end. Through Jesus Christ we have the promise of life, and we come to know all about Him through the wisdom and sound instruction of the Bible.
When we grow discouraged, we can reorient ourselves and surround ourselves with truths from Scripture. God’s Word will shield us from fear, will reassure us in our doubts, and will preserve us in times of trouble. The Lord wants to compass you with hope. He will point you in the right direction.
God’s Word gives us a different direction, something far better to surround or compass us. A path toward a righteous and living God may seem hard, but it leads to good in the end. Through Jesus Christ we have the promise of life, and we come to know all about Him through the wisdom and sound instruction of the Bible.
When we grow discouraged, we can reorient ourselves and surround ourselves with truths from Scripture. God’s Word will shield us from fear, will reassure us in our doubts, and will preserve us in times of trouble. The Lord wants to compass you with hope. He will point you in the right direction.
Scripture Focus
Psalm 5
Insight
Written by Thomas H., California State Prison, Corcoran, CA. Please pray that Thomas will know with certainty that God’s love surrounds him.
Bible In A Year
- Leviticus 25
- Psalm 59
- Luke 23