“The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10 NIV).
A refuge serves as a source of protection. It is a structure designed to be a secret place. Inside, it gives you everything you need. It is well-insulated and serves as a hiding place for those in danger. It keeps intruders out, and only those allowed can enter.
Conversely, some places only pose as a source of refuge but aren’t. These places are easily accessible by others. They provide temporary protection but are almost instantly discovered by intruders. They are not designed to protect. Therefore, these structures are unable to protect. These places lack resources and can only be inhabited for short periods. Those who run these places for protection often find themselves consistently running.
I find myself consistently running to instant gratification as a source of refuge. The immediate satisfaction of a thing often entices me. It poses as comfort, but just for a moment. After receiving instant gratification, I constantly return to it for more. Its function is not to protect me.
I often forget that God desires me to lay my burdens down and cast my cares unto him. I forget that perfect love drives out all fear and that God himself is perfect love. This means I should run to God when anxious and afraid. One of his many attributes is his ability to protect.
“The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10 NIV).
I love how this scripture illustrates that not only is the Lord a fortified tower, but so is his very name. Refuge under him is not restricted to a place- simply calling on his name provides the safety that places and things can never give.
I constantly must remind myself to consider the source and to run to God to supply all my needs, even my safety.
God is the ultimate refuge.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for being the only trustworthy source of refuge. At times, I run to temporary satisfaction instead of your everlasting love. Please give me the desire to pursue you every time. Amen.
Your turn: In times of trouble, who or what do you turn to and why?
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