“The Bible is composed of 1,189 chapters, with an average of 18 per book. Notably, Psalm 117 stands as the shortest chapter, residing as the 594th chapter, while Psalm 119 stands to be the longest chapter of the Holy Word. Psalm 118 is the 595th chapter, and verse 8 is the middle verse in the entire Bible. Shouldn’t the central verse of the Holy Word contain a very important message? ”

Brother Samir Ghantous

With a heavy heart, Brother Samir shared with the rest of the Horizons team as he opened up about recent challenges that he has faced. He recounted a tragic incident that involved the loss of a relative at Lebanon’s southern border. His relative was returning from work with 12 other employees riding in a van, and for an unknown reason—perhaps fear of the devastating bombing impacted in close proximity—the van driver lost control, overturning the van they were traveling in. Sadly, the relative died as a result, a heartbreaking moment of sorrow and grief for Brother Samir and his family.

Samir recounted rushing to the south of Lebanon to offer his condolences and support, vividly describing an intense moment when an F-16 bomber struck just 200 meters away. The house they were in shook violently—a truly frightening experience. Despite his fear, he found strength in recalling the words of Psalm 118:5–6, crying out to the Lord for safety.

Despite the overwhelming sorrow and fear that gripped him, Brother Samir found peace in the Word of God and was able to openly express his emotions. He drew a parallel between the challenges he faced and Psalm 118, known as “the heart of the Bible,” which is the very center of the scriptures.

In the face of adversity, Brother Samir turned to Psalm 118, and specifically verse 8, which states, “It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans,” recognizing its profound message that deeply resonates with many believers. It served as a reminder to him not to give in to fear, urging faith in God as his unwavering refuge during times of uncertainty and unexpected trials. In embracing the teachings of this psalm, Brother Samir found strength and reassurance in his faith, highlighting the enduring relevance of scripture in navigating life’s trials.

Psalm 118:5–19 reads:

5 When hard-pressed, I cried to the Lord; he brought me into a spacious place.

6 The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?

7 The Lord is with me; he is my helper. I look in triumph on my enemies.

8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans.

9 It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes.

10 All the nations surrounded me, but in the name of the Lord I cut them down.

11 They surrounded me on every side, but in the name of the Lord I cut them down.

12 They swarmed around me like bees, but they were consumed as quickly as burning thorns; in the name of the Lord I cut them down.

13 I was pushed back and about to fall, but the Lord helped me.

14 The Lord is my strength and my defense[a]; he has become my salvation.

15 Shouts of joy and victory resound in the tents of the righteous: “The Lord’s right hand has done mighty things!

16 The Lord’s right hand is lifted high; the Lord’s right hand has done mighty things!”

17 I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done.

18 The Lord has chastened me severely, but he has not given me over to death.

19 Open for me the gates of the righteous; I will enter and give thanks to the Lord.

PRAYER POINTS

Pray that the Lord brings peace to Brother Samir and his family as they grieve the loss of their relative. May His presence be a source of comfort during this difficult time.

Pray that God grants strength to Brother Samir and the Horizons staff as they face adversity. May they find courage in Psalm 118 and trust in God’s protection as they continue their mission.

Pray for healing and restoration for those affected by the recent events in Lebanon. May Psalm 118 inspire hope and restore faith in God’s love during these challenging times.

Amen.