What Does It Mean to Seek Refuge with God?
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Jason Custer from Leading Captivity Captive says, “Interestingly enough, the primary use of the word “refuge” in the Old Testament before the Psalms is in reference to the 'Cities of Refuge.’ That is what I find particularly odd. The Cities of Refuge were six cities that were safe-havens for anyone who had accidentally killed someone to flee to. The killer was safe in the city from any avenger, yet could not leave the city until the high priest had died. Which makes for an interesting idea of God – a refuge – a place to flee when one is being pursued. This is not a usual place to reside, but one that only those in dire need come to.”
When we think about the difficulties we are currently facing, we may not be physically running for our lives, but we could be spiritually seeking out a safe haven. We are in the midst of a great spiritual battle in which the Lord already won. However, we are still on the battle grounds awaiting His return.
We can go to our Lord any day, but we can specifically ask Him to be our refuge when we feel afraid, when we feel attacked, or in the midst of trials. It is a comforting thought to ponder, that no matter what our circumstances, we can always find a shelter in God. This means we can bring Him our fears and be vulnerable in our emotions. We can share honest concerns and God will care for us and tend to our needs. He will protect us from the enemy’s schemes. He will encourage us in our weaknesses. He will strengthen us by His Spirit to go back out again.
One thing to note is that people who went to a refuge in the Bible did not live there. When we imagine a refuge situation, we can picture a temporary place of protection. We are not always in times of trouble, but when we do face them, the Lord is there with His great compassion and comfort in the trials. Sometimes we need to step away from the battles in which we are facing and be alone with the Lord to be ministered to. However, we are called to actively participate with Him in His kingdom work. May we never consider a refuge as a homestead.
We are not called to comfort and isolation. We are called to pick up our crosses and love others. We cannot do this in a place of shelter. When the Psalmist shares that God is our refuge in Psalm 46, he also says to “be still and know.” There are specific times or seasons in our lives when we need to get away and be still in the presence of the Lord. We need extra refreshment after a busy time. We might have experienced a loss. We may have gone through a physical challenge and need rest. These are times when we seek God as our Refuge. Then, after we have been in the safe hiding place of the shadow of His wing, we put on His armor and head back out to the spiritual battle.
Do you need a refuge today? Are you feeling weary and worn down by the attacks from the enemy? Do you need to get to the quiet place of God’s presence for a special time of restoration? Seek Him today and He will shelter you in the storms of life and minister to your heart. Never forget that Our Savior has more than we could ever need. He takes care of us and is aware of the challenges that we are facing in life. He is our Refuge and strength, He is always with us to help in our time of need.
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