We all face suffering, challenges and broken hearts because we live in a fallen world. In Nahum 1:7 it says, "The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble, He cares for those who trust in him." Notice it doesn't say IF there is trouble - it says IN times of trouble - because we WILL have trouble.This is a good reminder that when we are in the middle of times of trouble we can go to God and find refuge and shelter. Who doesn't need that in today's world?! A refuge is a safe dwelling for people in trouble or in danger. It is a place of rest in a storm or attack. God is an ever present help in our trouble. He will always be there and walk through the storm with us.
Psalm 46:1-6 - "God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts."
All of this is made possible through the power of the cross. In Jesus we gain protection and guidance when we accept Him as our Savior. When we face a storm, we can know Jesus is in the boat with us. Sometimes it may feel like He is sleeping, but at the perfect moment He will calm the storm.
I am sure if we're being honest, we all have wondered at times whether God really cares. We have people leave, forsake, hurt and betray us. This is where we cannot confuse people with God. God says if we trust in Him, He will care for us and sustain us. If you have been hurt by people I encourage you to put your trust in God, not in people, circumstances or things. Put your trust in God, He cares for you and He will be your refuge.
What do you think of when you hear that God is our refuge? I think of rest and safety; of peace and not walking alone; someone to help carry my burdens.
I do not know what you are going through today - financial problems, job, sickness, addiction - but whatever it is, know that in Jesus there is refuge and rest. Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
I pray today and everyday you will find rest and refuge in Jesus.
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