There is a place of quiet rest,
Near to the heart of God;
A place where sin cannot molest,
Near to the heart of God.

Refrain:
O Jesus, blest Redeemer,
Sent from the heart of God;
Hold us, who wait before Thee,
Near to the heart of God.
(The Broadman Hymnal, Broadman Press: Nashville Tennessee, 1940)

Psalm 23:3 says, “He restores my soul” (English Standard Version); “He renews my life” (Christian Standard Bible); “he refreshes my soul” (New International Version); “He renews my strength” (New Living Translation).

Soul restoration is God’s work. He is our refuge. He is our protector and defender. He is the source of every good and perfect gift (James 1:17). 

Those who know God in an ever-deeper abiding relationship discover the source of hope in God’s words of truth and life. 

Spaced repetition embeds these truths, this life, into our hearts and minds. Daily reading and pondering nourishes us. Selected verses committed to memory accompany us wherever we go and strengthen us in whatever we face. 

Hope is far more enduring than a momentary wish. It is a settled disposition, a confident expectation of God’s promises and purpose.

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I will commit God’s words of truth and life to memory and lean on them for hope whenever I need it.

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Our Father, thank you that you are our refuge and shield. Thank you that you are our source of hope. Protect us, defend us, hide us, and give us confidence in you today and every day. Amen.