I hurry to my place of shelter, far from the tempest and the storm." Psalm 55:8
A few years ago I heard a story on the evening news about two students hurrying across the parking lot to their school building just as it had begun to rain. As they reached a grassy area and under a tree for shelter, lightning struck the tree and killed them both. I couldn't believe my ears! How?...What?...Why?... And all the other questions turning in my head as I stood in the middle of my living room staring dumbstruck at my television trying to make since of this tragedy that had occured.
When we think we are seeking protection; running for cover; or taking refuge, we might just be going in the wrong direction if we aren't being led by God. We might just be chasing after our own demise. Something that looks so safe could be disguised by the evil one as a means to our end.
Are you tired? Are you longing for a break? Have you messed up with bad choices? Are you lonely? Or confused? I know you're thinking if I could just get away for a short amount of time and breathe the air with no demands or responsibilities attached to me I might could find some semblance of peace and rest. We all feel this way from time to time. Life deals some heavy blows; hard situations; scary moments; or just an overloaded appointment book. Where will you go to find rest, refreshment, relief? How do you handle these types of life situations?
"So I said, "Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest. Indeed, I would wander far off, and remain in the wilderness." Psalm 55:7
I don't know if I can get on board with David's concept of 'wandering in the wilderness' to ease my burdened mind as my first or even second choice. Maybe taking a trip to a nice hotel for a few days and resting poolside as I take in God's natural beauty all around me, or wandering my way through a day spa with a massage and a facial in my near future. I mean, don't get me wrong, I enjoy a nice little tromp through the woods occasionally, on a manmade trail with written guidelines of what direction is which. It is always so relaxing and serene to be out in this beautiful world of ours when I know there is wildlife protection...for me...but the wilderness?
"But I, by your great love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple. But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield." (Psalm 5:7;11,12)
I seek God as my refuge (Ps. 91:2); my shelter from life's storms (Ps. 143:9). I will sing for joy my thanksgiving for His perfect protection over me (Ps. 139:10). I will forever rejoice in Him for He surrounds me with His favor (Ps. 5:12).And yes, if or when He leads me I will wander in the wilderness to seek solace and learn total dependence on Him (Deut. 8:2).
No amount of fine hotels, luxurious spas, or a healthy jaunt in the great outdoors will find us the 'vacation from life's problems' that we are longing for until first we find ourselves in God's holy presence. Allowing Him to hold us, care for us, breathe new life into our souls. He refreshes and strengthens in a way only our heavenly Father can (Ps. 23:3).
He is the One we should run to...indeed!
I love you and He loves you more!
Lord, Thank You for being my Shield; my Defender; my Protector, always watching over me. May we learn to first run to You and always recognize the mirages the evil one may set up for us. Help us to be strong in Your Word and the power of Your might. May we seek complete rest and healing in You as we walk along our journey here on earth. Amen.
Originally posted 1/6/2020