February 26, 2026
Altaschith - Do Not Destroy
Read: Leviticus 23, 24; Psalm 57; Mark 1:1-20
Scripture: Psalm 57:1 (For the director of music. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” Of David. A miktam. When he had fled from Saul into the cave.) Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.
Observation: The title of Psalm 57 gets our attention today. This Psalm is set to the tune of "Do Not Destroy" (altaschith in Hebrew). In the book of Psalms, four psalms (Ps. 57,58,59, and 75) have the word altaschith, and six psalms (Ps.16, 56-60) have the word miktam in their title. The actual meaning of the word miktam is not yet known. However, most of these psalms were written when David faced struggles from his enemies. These psalms reflect how desperately the psalmist sought God and asked for his help for protection and deliverance. As we read the context of Psalm 57, we know that Saul pursued David and his men with 3000 choicest Israelite men to besiege and kill him (1 Sam.24:2).
David cried out to God for help and prepared his heart to praise God. Of course, his enemies were dangerous, like lions and wild beasts. However, he was confident that God's love and faithfulness were incomparable and indescribable. So, he was able to sing a song to the tune of "Do Not Destroy." In the end, as we read, without any arms, Saul went to the very cave where David was hiding with his men. Then it was David who spared the life of Saul. With confidence in God's love and his ability to deliver us, we, too, can sing a song like this when we face severe problems and enemies.
Application: Irrespective of the situations and trials of my life, I can always sing songs of praise and songs of hope. When I face big mountains, I can find a cave to take refuge "until the disaster has passed." Under the shadow of the Almighty God, no one could ever touch a child of God without his permission. When my enemies "spread a net" and "dig a pit" for me, I should fix my eyes on God and must prepare my heart to praise him. His love is great; his faithfulness reaches the skies. What more do I need!
Prayer: Father God, thank you for being my hiding place to protect me from my enemies, problems, and the difficulties of my life. Thank you for faithfully sending your help, which shows your love and power. Help me to seek you always with love and be faithful to you. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 57