TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 17 FEBRUARY
February 17, 2026
SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS INTO THE LIVES OF THE SEVEN HOLY FOUNDERS FEAST DAY
February 18, 2026
Psalm 27
Of David.
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When the wicked advance against me
to devour me,
it is my enemies and my foes
who will stumble and fall.
3 Though an army besiege me,
my heart will not fear;
though war break out against me,
even then I will be confident.
4 One thing I ask from the Lord,
this only do I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the Lord
and to seek him in his temple.
5 For in the day of trouble
he will keep me safe in his dwelling;
he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent
and set me high upon a rock.
6 Then my head will be exalted
above the enemies who surround me;
at his sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts of joy;
I will sing and make music to the Lord.
7 Hear my voice when I call, Lord;
be merciful to me and answer me.
8 My heart says of you, “Seek his face!”
Your face, Lord, I will seek.
9 Do not hide your face from me,
do not turn your servant away in anger;
you have been my helper.
Do not reject me or forsake me,
God my Savior.
10 Though my father and mother forsake me,
the Lord will receive me.
11 Teach me your way, Lord;
lead me in a straight path
because of my oppressors.
12 Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes,
for false witnesses rise up against me,
spouting malicious accusations.
13 I remain confident of this:
I will see the goodness of the Lord
in the land of the living.
14 Wait for the Lord;
be strong and take heart
and wait for the Lord.
Standing Fearless with the Lord
David begins Psalm 27 with a bold declaration: “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” This reminds us that true confidence is rooted in God, not circumstances. When we acknowledge Him as our protector, we can face challenges without fear, even when surrounded by opposition or uncertainty.
Seeking God Above All
Verse 4 highlights the heart of worship: desiring to dwell in God’s presence. Seeking His face daily allows us to experience His beauty, wisdom, and guidance. Prioritizing God above all else transforms our perspective, helping us navigate life with clarity and purpose.
God’s Protection in Times of Trouble
David’s assurance in verses 5–6 emphasizes God’s protection. He shelters us in the day of trouble and lifts us above adversity. Life will have storms, but trusting God as our stronghold ensures we remain secure and unshaken.
Persistent Prayer and Devotion
Verses 7–12 encourage consistent prayer and dependence on God. By seeking Him wholeheartedly, we invite His mercy, guidance, and protection. Even when the world disappoints us or enemies rise, God’s faithfulness sustains and upholds us.
Hope and Patience
The psalm closes with a timeless reminder: “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” Patience and hope are essential in our spiritual journey. Trusting God’s timing allows us to witness His goodness in our lives and strengthens our faith through every trial.
