Where is your Refuge?

Psalm 91

Where is your refuge, is it a secure place, no matter what happens where is your trust, and to whom do you turn when things go from bad to worse?  Many of you will be quick to say God, but what god?  For many it is not the God that the Psalmist is referring to in Psalm 91, verse two makes that very clear.  “I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”   So one must ask where does my trust comes from?  Do I put my hope in self, my ability to solve problems, my job, or the company I’m part of?  Or is your trust in government, its ability to provide for you and protect you?  What about your wealth, you know the stuff you have and the material things like houses and wealth you acquired?

I've often put trust in so many of the little gods, and you know the ones that cannot hear nor see, the ones that are here today and gone tomorrow.  But not the Psalmist, his fortress and refuge were in God whom he found peace and rest.  He had an understanding of what Jesus told us many years later; the world and its desires are passing away, but He has overcome the world.  He also understood these words of Jesus found in John 10:9-10, “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.  The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.  I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

The Psalmist uses figurative language like the snare of the fowler; to describe the thief Jesus is telling us about and how God covers you under His wings like a mother hen does her chicks from the birds of prey.  He also knew his value to God, when he said ten thousand on your right side might fall, but it will not happen to you, but you will see the recompense of the wicked.  

Listen to the promise made to the one that holds fast to the Lord.  Psalm 91:14-16, “Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.  He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.  With long life, I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”

One must ask this question if they are honest with themselves; can the God I’m putting my trust in making such a promise and come through with it?

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice