But the LORD reigns forever, executing judgment from his throne. He will judge the world with justice and rule the nations with fairness. The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O LORD, do not abandon those who search for you.
Psalm 9:7-10
We’ve looked at God as a source of strength and how time in His presence can refresh and strengthen us in the challenges and hurries of this life. So, let me ask you something: where do you run for protection? You know, on those days when the whole world seems to be against you or when your circumstances take a sudden turn for the worse. Where do you turn for protection from the storm?
Without doubt, there are times in this life when we all need protecting times when we’re crushed by the weight of our troubles, when enemies assail us on all sides.
In the days of old, cities had walls and fortresses built around them, and with good reason. It was their protection against an enemy attack. It was their safety and security. And it was back in those days that King David of Israel penned these words about God from Psalms 9:7-10, But the LORD reigns forever, executing judgment from his throne. He will judge the world with justice and rule the nations with fairness. The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O LORD, do not abandon those who search for you.
Properly, a stronghold: a citadel into which the persecuted would retreat.
Bible Hub
David’s use of the metaphor is reasonably ascribed to his having “often experienced safety in such places, when fleeing from Saul” (Hengstenberg; see 1 Samuel 23:14). A refuge in times of trouble; literally, in times in trouble; i.e. “in times that are steeped in trouble” (Kay). -Bible Hub
It’s true. Sometimes we are crushed by the weight of our troubles. Sometimes enemies do assail us on all sides. And in those desperate times, the Lord is your refuge. The Lord is the safe place you can run to. The Lord is your protection. And mark this: He will never, ever leave you without help. That’s a truth you’d do well to allow the Holy Spirit to write on your heart because who knows when you’ll need it?
Daily Prayer: Lord, You are my refuge, my stronghold in times of trouble. You are my safe place, my hideaway, my shade from the storms of life. You desire to be my comforter and helper. Thank You for not leaving me alone even in my troubled moments. I trust in You, Lord. Thank You, Father. Amen.
Daily Reflections & Prayer: What do you learn about the character of God from these verses? How can thinking and meditating on the Lord as our refuge transform you?
Close your eyes and ask God to show you how He is your refuge. What image comes to mind? If possible, draw an illustration of this verse. How does this bring you peace?
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