Surrounded By His Love
“Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the LORD.” ~Psalm 32:10
If you know me at all, you know I am not driven by my feelings or experiences. I’m not stoic or cold; I’m just not dominated by my emotions. It’s not that I think emotions or experiences are inherently wrong—I simply can’t afford to build my life on them. They’re fleeting and impressionable, which means I can’t always trust them.
But this day was different.
It began like any other day—up around 4 a.m., coffee, quiet time—then my dog and I headed for the hills to greet the sunrise on our daily walk. Well, I guess some people wouldn’t call it a walk; they’d probably describe it more like a trek, because it’s mostly straight up. And yet, that morning, I barely noticed the incline.
Like a child waiting for Christmas morning, I was eager to crest the hill and watch the sun rise. But on this particular day, the sunrise seemed to greet me. Instead of me moving toward it, it seemed to be coming toward me. It was not distant on the horizon—it was near. Dawn filled the sky with dazzling pinks and purples, then the clouds seemed to gather the colors and bring them to me. They moved in low, surrounding me on every side. I was enveloped by His beauty and sensed His presence in a way I never had before. If a cloud could hug, that morning it held me close.
And in that moment, I was keenly aware of what Scripture has always declared to be true: God’s steadfast love surrounds those who trust Him. I didn’t discover something new about God that morning—I was simply made aware, in a fresh way, of His nearness and care. His faithful, unwavering love—always present—felt unmistakably close.
Reflection
What does it mean, practically, to trust the LORD rather than merely believe true things about Him?
Scripture declares that God’s steadfast love surrounds those who trust Him—whether they feel it or not. In what areas of your life are you tempted to question God’s nearness by your experience rather than His promise?
What voices or distractions tend to dull your awareness of God’s steadfast love—especially in ordinary, routine days?
How does knowing that God’s love surrounds you right now shape the way you face present sorrows, uncertainties, or fears?
Prayer
Lord, You have declared that Your steadfast love surrounds those who trust You. Help us to live in light of what is already true. When our awareness grows dull or our attention drifts, gently remind us that You are near—not because of what we feel, but because of who You are. Teach us to trust You today, to rest in Your faithful love, and to walk forward knowing we are fully surrounded by Your care. Amen.
