What Does It Mean to Seek Refuge with God?
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Scripture uses the word refuge eighty-eight times. One of the most famous passages with a focus on refuge is Psalm 46. The chapter begins and ends declaring that the Lord is our refuge. Webster’s Dictionary tells us that a refuge is “shelter or protection from danger or distress.” We need a safe place to go to in the midst of difficulties. God is the one who welcomes us and holds us safely in His arms.
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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