This week's Scripture for memorisation comes from one of King David's psalms. After he ran from Saul, even lowering himself to the point of pretending to a drooling madman (1 Sam 21:10-15), David writes this psalm extolling God's goodness to him. Years later, in his first letter, Peter takes these words as he encourages the church a deeper, more mature faith (1 Peter 2:1-3).

God is good (Psalm 100:5), as much as he is jealous, merciful, faithful, great, eternal, gracious, mighty, exalted, righteous, holy and love. It is part of his unchanging character. He demonstrates his goodness by his love for sinners as he calls and guides us in his way (Psalm 25:8-10). We should be praying that God will teach us to follow his laws and to do good as he conforms us more into his likeness (Psalm 119:66-70).

On the day God saved him from the hand of Saul, David then sings to the praise of God. He describes the LORD as his rock, fortress, deliverer, refuge, shield, horn of his salvation, stronghold and saviour (2 Samuel 22:2-3). David recognises the security that comes from a relationship with God and trusts in his actions and words (2 Samuel 22:31). With God on our side, of what do we have to be afraid (Psalm 27:1)? His refuge extends to our salvation with deliverance promised to those who have taken refuge in him (Psalm 34:22) but there are warnings for those who seek refuge in wordly things (Psalm 57:2).

The knowledge of God's goodness, steadfast love, refuge, protection and salvation should draw us to praise and exalt him along with the psalmists (Psalm 5:11, Psalm 106:1).

Oh, taste and see the LORD is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!
Psalm 34:8