“O God, listen to my cry! Hear my prayer! … you are my safe refuge, a fortress where my enemies cannot reach me. Let me live forever in your sanctuary, safe beneath the shelter of your wings.”
Psalm 61:1-4 NLT
Based on a lifetime of study, military historian John Keegan defined a refuge as “a place of short-term safety.” While refuges have been important throughout history, strongholds have been even more important.
Strongholds are “not merely for safety from attack but also active defense.” These are centers “where the defenders are secure from surprise or superior numbers.” Because of their design, they can more easily “withstand sieges from attackers.”
The Bible makes it clear that God provides shelter for us. This is not merely a defensive refuge to escape danger; it’s more. He can lead us to a “towering rock of safety.” This means that God provides the strength we need and sure protection against any danger.
He also is our fortress, shielding us from assaults. He gives us the kind of safety provided by a strong tower. We may feel weak and vulnerable, but God can fill us with His strength. When our hearts are overwhelmed, we can cry to Him, confident that He will hear us and protect us.
Think about your problems and the adversaries you face. You do not have to cringe in fear or feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or vulnerable. Instead, cry to God. Commit your problems to Him. Be confident that He will shield you and provide a place of strength and safety where you can live in victory. That is His promise to you.
Prayer
Father, hear my cry. Listen to my prayers. Deliver me from fear. You are my protection and my strong tower against every enemy. In Jesus’ name, amen.
