Psalm 84:11  ¹¹ For the LORD God is a sun and shield; he bestows favor and honor. No good thing does the LORD withhold from those who walk uprightly.

Suns and shields seem to be opposite things. The sun shines into dark places. It provides life- giving light and heat. It can also burn away things that are too weak to survive. Shields protect against those things that could harm us like weapons, and ultraviolet rays.

God is both a sun and a shield. God is able to light up the dark corners of our lives. God reveals those beliefs and activities that would harm us. While God’s light is only meant for good, when it shines onto our sin we can feel the burn of shame and guilt. Then God’s love shines down on us and gives us life. God also shields us from those things that would hurt us. God gives us protection from temptation. We are able to fight against the evil that would cause us to sin.

God provides a way for us to deal with our negative behavior. He shines light on that behavior so that we can realize its effect on ourselves and others. When we strive to make positive changes in our lives God shields us from the temptations that would lead us back to sin. God wants good for us and gives us abundant blessings.

Lord, shine your light upon us to reveal those places we need to change. Shield us from the temptations that would lead us astray. Amen.