by Sherelyn Mayberry
Synopsis: Matthew Bassford and Glenda Schales have combined their lyrical talents in producing a memorable and moving hymn. Sherelyn reflects upon Scriptures that undergird this song of praise.
In the hymn “The Rock of My Heart” (Psalms Hymns and Spiritual Songs, #29), we sing of the stability and strength provided by our Lord on this earth and in eternity. The Lord is all we need to live each day with hope—however pleasant or difficult it may be. On tough days our feet may slip, and we may come close to stumbling, but the Lord is our refuge, our fortress. With Him near, we have strength and well-being (Ps. 73:2, 25-26, 28). As we stand firm in the faith, we can be brave because we are not alone. He is on our side (1 Cor. 16:13). Having girded your loins with truth and shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace, you can take up the shield of faith and stand against the fiery darts of Satan (Eph. 6:14-16). God seeks only our good as we seek and depend on Him for our eternal portion.
As we hold to Him during difficult times, the Lord will take us by the hand and give us the power to overcome. Like the Lord told Israel, “Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.” He will strengthen, help, and uphold you with His righteous hand (Isa. 41:10). Be anxious for nothing. Pray and be thankful. God promises that you can receive a peace that will guard your heart, and you can again rejoice (Phil. 4:6-7). Being exhausted and feeling weak, our anxiety may peak, but God says to take courage. “He will save you” (Isa. 35:3-4). When your heart grieves, and you are embittered, you may become vexed in your mind. Not thinking rationally, you become foolish like a beast having no discernment of the strength and guidance that God can provide. Reach out your hand to God, and He will take it (Ps. 73:21-23). He will see you through!
God’s counsel will guide our footsteps along the way to our glorious heavenly reward (Ps. 73:24). Let us, therefore, heed His counsel and receive instruction so that we will be wise. True wisdom based on the purpose of the Lord will stand. Man’s plans are only good when based on His word (Prov. 19:20-21). So, acquire wisdom. Seek it like it is hidden treasure; acquire knowledge and understanding (Prov. 2:2-8). Follow upright paths, so your steps will not be impeded, and you will not stumble. “Take firm hold of instruction, do not let go; Keep her, for she is your life” (Prov. 4:7, 11-13). The Lord meets all our needs and guides us in the path of righteousness. Goodness and lovingkindness will follow us through life, and we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever (Ps. 23:1-3, 6).
Like David, we should declare that the Lord is my rock, my fortress, my deliverer, my stronghold, in whom I take refuge (Ps. 18:2). When my heart is broken, or my earthly strength leaves me, to whom will I turn in my distress—the Rock of my heart! Pray like Hannah and rejoice, saying, “No one is holy like the Lord, for there is none besides You, nor is there any rock like our God” (1 Sam. 2:2). Do not despair, but believe that you will see the goodness of the Lord. Wait for the Lord. Be strong and let your heart take courage (Ps. 27:13-14). So, when your heart is faint, ask God to hear your prayer and lead you to the Rock that is higher than I (Ps. 61:2).
