Monday, February 3, 2025

God is Our Refuge

 


“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” (Psalm 91:1-2, ESV). During my teenage years in Puerto Rico, I had the privilege of singing a beautiful hymn in my home church based on this Psalm. The first verse and chorus resonate deeply in my heart. It goes like this:

He who dwells in the shelter of God

will abide under the shadow of love;

No evil shall come upon him

and in his wings, he will live happily.

Chorus:

Oh, I want to dwell in the shelter of God;

only there will I find peace and deep love.

My delight is to enjoy communion with him

and to praise his name forever.

What a beautiful promise we have from our Creator! These words remind us that God’s shelter is not just a place of safety, but a place of peace, love, and security. The shelter of God is where we find refuge, where His love covers us like a blanket, and where His presence brings the peace that surpasses all understanding.

Many of us live in challenging times. The pressures of life, the struggles we face, and the chaos of this world can leave us feeling overwhelmed. There are moments when the trials seem too heavy to bear, and it can feel like hope is just out of reach. In such times, it’s easy to seek relief in temporary solutions, whether it’s through substances, distractions, or unhealthy habits. But God offers a far better refuge—one that does not just numb the pain but heals and restores us.

When we choose to live under the shadow of the Almighty, we align ourselves with His protection and His provision. We are reminded that no matter what storms we face, God is a strong fortress, a shelter that will never fail us. Psalm 91 assures us that when we rest in His presence, He will cover us and shield us from harm. This is not just a physical protection but a spiritual covering—God’s peace and His love are an unshakable foundation in the midst of life’s chaos.

In times of hardship, it is easy to forget where our true refuge lies. But let us remember that God is our safe place, our fortress, and our deliverer. Instead of turning to things that only offer temporary relief, let us run to the arms of our Heavenly Father, who promises to bring us peace that endures forever. It is in His shelter that we find true fulfillment and the joy we long for.

When challenges come, bring them to the Lord. Lay them at His feet, and trust that He will carry you through. Rest in the comfort of His love, knowing that in Him you will find "peace and deep love”, an unshakable peace, and a love that never fails.

May the Lord bless you and keep you always. May you experience His peace and love today and forevermore, as you find refuge in the shelter of the Most High. 

Discussion Questions

1. **How do you personally experience God's peace and protection in times of trouble? Can you recall a specific moment when you felt His sheltering presence during a challenging season? **

2. **In what ways do people often seek refuge in temporary solutions like substances or distractions, and how does living under the "shadow of the Almighty" offer a better and more lasting alternative? **

3. **Psalm 91 speaks of God's protection and love, but it doesn't promise a life free from difficulties. How can we reconcile the reality of life's challenges with the assurance of God's shelter and peace? **

4. The Psalm emphasizes the importance of dwelling in God's presence. How can we cultivate a deeper sense of living in that "secret place" with God in our everyday lives, even amidst our busy or stressful routines

No comments:

Post a Comment

Rooted in Christ

  "Therefore, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in him, being rooted and built up in him and establish...