Redeemed and Hidden: A Reflection on Psalm 34:22

“The Lord redeems the soul of His servants, and none who take refuge in Him will be held guilty.”—Psalm 34:22 (literal rendering)

The Lord doesn’t just deliver us from the troubles we experience while living in this fallen world. He goes further. He redeems us—purchasing us out of the very kingdom of evil itself. This act is more than a rescue; it’s a complete transfer of ownership, a liberation that changes not only our circumstances but our identity and allegiance.

We were all, at one time, servants of evil. Sin wasn’t just something we did—it was something that held us captive. But for those who have turned from evil, there’s been a dramatic break: we’ve become like runaway slaves, fleeing from a cruel master. And Evil, like Pharaoh chasing Israel through the wilderness, doesn’t easily let go of what it once ruled.

Yet there is hope. The Lord is our refuge—our sanctuary city. Just as the ancient cities of refuge provided safety for those fleeing vengeance, the Lord provides covering and protection for all who run to Him. And more than that: He doesn’t just hide us from our old master. He frees us by redeeming us. He pays the price, breaks the chains, and claims us as His own.

Because of this, we are no longer held guilty. Why? Because we no longer hate the Righteous One—we love Him. We see what He has done for us. We see the cross, the empty tomb, and the invitation into a new kingdom. And in that love, there is no guilt, because we have taken refuge in the One who bore our guilt Himself.

Psalm 34 draws a sharp contrast:

“Evil will slay the wicked, and those who hate the righteous will be held guilty. But the Lord redeems the soul of His servants, and none who take refuge in Him will be held guilty.” (vv.21–22)

This is the story of the Gospel in miniature. Redemption isn’t abstract—it’s personal. God sees us running, sees the fear in our eyes, and says, “Come. Take refuge in Me.” And when we do, He doesn’t just hide us—He frees us. He makes us His.

The chase is over. The debt is paid. We are home.