I know that I already shared about a new prayer prompt that I am using in my quiet time with the Lord, but y’all, it is yielding such amazing truths. So, here I am, once again, to share with you what the Lord is teaching me through it. Let me remind you what I am doing. I spend a few moments each morning reading one of the Psalms, and as I do, I look for PRAISE PROMPTS.
On Saturday morning, the Lord got out His highlighter and showed me something very special. Today my everyday jesus post is all about what He showed me this time.
I read Psalm 16 on Saturday morning and the Lord highlighted one specific word: refuge. I feel like the Lord might just reserve His highlighter for slow learners like me!
Refuge: (noun) shelter or protection from danger or trouble; a place that provides shelter or protection
As I thanked Jesus for being my refuge, I was reminded that I had read this same word several other times since beginning my new prayer prompt. I did a bit of research and discovered that, in fact, I had read about ‘refuge’ in previous Psalms.
Did you know the word refuge is used in the Bible 95 times (ESV)? FORTY SEVEN of those uses are in the Psalms. I’d say that it is a pretty important word if He used it that much in just one book!
When I think of the times in my life that I have needed a refuge, without fail, it is during times of stress and trial. God knew that life on this fallen orb would offer plenty of times when we would need a refuge.
What does a refuge look like? Here are some things that might be considered a refuge:
Home
Spouse
Parents
Friend
Church
Small Group
Bathroom (if you are a mom of small children)
God/Jesus
Almost without fail, every use of the word refuge in the Psalms is associated with God being our refuge, our safe place in times of trouble and trial. When life tosses difficult circumstances at me, God is my refuge; my safe place. I know that I can always go to God, and He will protect me. His Words offer life and comfort. His Holy Spirit lives within me to guide me.
If trouble and trial is your lot in this season, I want to encourage you to seek refuge in Jesus and in His Word. Spend time with Him and learn from His Word. Allow Him to highlight something from Scripture that is specifically for your heart. Neither Jesus, nor His Word, will ever let you down.
Here are a few verses about refuge. I hope they encourage you today.
Psalm 16:1 ~ Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
Psalm 18:2 ~ The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Psalm 25:20 ~ Oh, guard my soul, and deliver me! Let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.
Psalm 31:1 ~ In you, O LORD, do I take refuge; let me never be put to shame; in your righteousness deliver me!
Psalm 46:1 ~ God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
