Out on the water or up on a mountain is where I always feel God’s power in full force. There is just too much to awe at and I find myself overwhelmed and in tears. The Lord is mighty and awesome in creation.
We see that when we step outside in the backyard or out on an adventure. When we can recognize his creativity in creation, we can also believe what scripture says about his character.
The mountains shout with their elevation reaching to the clouds. The ocean’s deep roars with an entire population of living creatures hidden until explored.
I was reading Psalms 118 this weekend and kept coming across the word refuge. I love this word and what it means for the believer.
“It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.” – Psalm 118:8
Some days aren’t we all running for shelter from the storms of life? Our very own refuge is God himself. He is the Creator of the universe and yet He cares for you and I.
His desire is for us to seek shelter in the hope He offers.
It is tempting to run to people as our first refuge isn’t it?
Crisis…call a friend! Personal sturggle…read a book! Need a break from everything…vacation! Even substance abuse is a common temporary and eventually destructive refuge for many.
The hard truth is that none of those will ever be a safe refuge like God is.
He is constant, unchanging and does not swerve.
With whatever kind of day we may face, one thing will never change. He is our refuge in times of trouble and in times of celebration.
The words in scripture feel powerful to me…especially this one!
Refuge speaks of the depth of Gods love and his might.
“God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride.
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy dwelling places of the Most High. God is in the midst of her, she will not be moved;God will help her when morning dawns.” – Psalm 46:1-5
Refuge gives us a glimpse of the character of God, His eternal dwelling and the unmistakable watch over creation.
May you find yourself running to God this weekend in the light and the heavy moments.
He will shelter you. He will celebrate with you. He is your refuge!
Jenny Howell 