Psalms 61–63 - Finding strength and refuge in God amidst trials and longing for His presence.
I checked the RSC (rsc.byu.edu) and Joseph Smith Papers (josephsmithpapers.org) for relevant material on Psalms 61–63, and while there were general articles on Psalms, none focused specifically on the themes of refuge, strength in God amidst trials, or longing for His presence in these particular psalms as directly as other Church resources. Therefore, I've opted for a more general yet highly relevant article from the Liahona that addresses finding peace and refuge in Christ during difficult times.
In an article titled "Finding Peace in Christ When the World Is in Commotion" from the Liahona, Elder Quentin L. Cook highlights how finding enduring peace is only possible through faith in the Savior, Jesus Christ, and adherence to His gospel. He emphasizes that true peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a spiritual assurance found by keeping covenants and seeking the Spirit. This perspective suggests that amidst life's storms, our ultimate refuge and strength come from our relationship with God, allowing us to rise above worldly anxieties and find spiritual tranquility.
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2021/04/55-cook-peace?lang=eng
The Psalms assigned for today (Psalms 61–63) beautifully express a deep yearning for God's presence and a reliance on Him as a refuge in times of trouble. David, in Psalm 61, cries out, "Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I" Psalm 61:1–2. He then affirms his trust, declaring, "For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy" Psalm 61:3.
Psalm 62 continues this theme of finding refuge and strength in God alone: "Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him cometh my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved" Psalm 62:1–2. This psalm repeatedly counsels, "Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us" Psalm 62:8.
Finally, Psalm 63 articulates a profound longing for God's presence, comparing it to thirst in a dry land: "O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is" Psalm 63:1. The psalmist finds comfort and satisfaction in remembering God's goodness: "Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name" Psalm 63:3–4.
References
1. Cook, Quentin L. "Finding Peace in Christ When the World Is in Commotion." Liahona, April 2021. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2021/04/55-cook-peace?lang=eng