A Safe Refuge

"Be my strong refuge, to which I may resort continually; you have given the commandment to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress."  -Psalm 71:3 (NKJV)

The world can be a cruel place to live. You only have to watch the latest news broadcast, or read the daily news to verify this. Wars, disease, racial and religious strife, killings, financial woes, and the list goes on and on. Sounds pretty scary doesn't it?

We all yearn for a place where we can get away from all of this, if only for a precious while. Some take the so-called "easy way out." They turn to drugs, alcohol, illicit activities, or worse. Of course, we are all too aware of the outcome when this road is taken. And, it usually ends badly.

You've probably been told, or have heard that "life isn't easy." It isn't. No one ever said that it would be. Everyday is different, and with every day comes a new set of problems, or situations (Matthew 6:34).

At one time or another, everyone's felt as if they've been backed into a corner, or boxed in. It's usually at this point that the "easy way out" sounds really inviting. Yes, the temptation can be very strong. But, know that "God is faithful" and "he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. And, "when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it" (1 Corinthians 10:13). We need a safe, secure place where we can find refuge.

So, where is this safe place that you and I can go to find safety, or rest from the world? That warm. comforting  abode where outside dangers can't touch us? You don't have to look too hard to find it. It's with God! Do you remember how people long ago lived inside castles, or fortresses constructed from strong stone? They were usually surrounded by a protective barricade of some sort? Even those who lived outside the walls could find refuge within during times of danger.

This is the type of strong habitation that God provides for us, only much better. Think of him as a rock, or strong hold that we can turn to during times of upheaval, sickness, turmoil, depression, worry, etc. He is always there, His door is always open, at anytime of the day or night. No special invitation is needed.

Dear friends, we all want to feel protected, needed, and loved. We all need that refuge, dwelling, or home where we feel welcome no matter what. We long for that safe retreat; or special place of healing and renewal. Who among us doesn't want that, or need that from time to time?

Merriam-Webster defines "refuge" as: a place that provides shelter or protection. God is the real deal! He is a blessed and enduring place of refuge, offering security, comfort and permanent residence. And here's the best part. You don't have to spend thousands of dollars, or travel vast distances to find Him. He's as close as your heart and a prayer.

Scripture: 2 Samuel 22:2; Psalm 18:2; Psalm 31:2; Psalm 31:3; Psalm 91:9

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for this and every day. If my heart is full of troubles today, please give me the wisdom to deal with them so that I may find peace. Amen

God bless you!

Riley