Daily Verse
February 20, 2026
Psalm 5:11-12 ESV
But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy, and spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may exult in you. For you bless the righteous, O Lord; you cover him with favor as with a shield.
David paints a powerful contrast in this psalm—between the chaos of the wicked and the security of those who run to God. Notice the order: refuge first, then rejoicing. Joy isn’t rooted in circumstances; it’s rooted in where we run.
To “take refuge” in the Lord means we stop pretending we are our own protection. We don’t trust in reputation, resources, or resilience—we trust in Him. And from that position of dependence flows something surprising: singing. Not because life is easy, but because God is near.
Verse 12 gives us a steady anchor: God’s favor is a shield. A shield doesn’t remove the battle—it protects you in it. That means today, whatever you face, you are not exposed. If you belong to Him, you are covered.
So here’s the simple takeaway for today:
Run to God first. Rejoice from that place. Walk forward knowing you are shielded by His favor.
That changes how you pray.That changes how you lead.That changes how you endure.
Take refuge—and let joy rise from there.