The Messenger of the Lord camps around those who fear him,
Psalm 34.7-10 (GW)
and he rescues them.
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Blessed is the person who takes refuge in him.
Fear the Lord, you holy people who belong to him.
Those who fear him are never in need.
Young lions go hungry and may starve,
but those who seek the Lord’s help have all the good things they need.
Do you have a place where you feel safe and secure? Is it on a deserted beach or a cabin deep within the Douglas fir? Your refuge. Or is it a person? Someone with whom you can be accountable. That kindred Spirit who knows you and, despite your quirks, cares. The one or group of people who will speak the truth in your life. When you need honesty and truth, not condescension or judgment, the people you would call. A person like the Father in the Parable of the Prodigal. (Luke 15:11-32 GW)
Unfortunately, many would say they don’t have a person. On the other hand, many may say they have a place of refuge but cannot reach a place of security often due to the world’s demands. In the interim what do you do? God calls us to take refuge in Him. Remarkably, to “taste and see that the Lord is good.” The benefit of the test, despite life’s disappointment, pressures, and difficulties? Joy. It exists.
Have you seen it happen? Have you had the privilege of witnessing stories of brokenness and emotional injury? Like the person sitting next to you, if you knew them, whose story you would find difficult and painful. This person, sitting across from you in a group who, through the Spirit’s leading, found that place. Wouldn’t you like to know how, despite the injury, they can exclaim like the Psalmist, “Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! (Ps. 34.8) You can, and if you do, you can show others.
Where is your refuge? Who or what do you turn to when stuff starts to spiral? When you realize you are knee-deep and know the “it.” Where do you turn when life closes in? First, run to the Father! The place of refuge, the person who knows you. Second, find that person or small group– yes, one exists – who will speak truth into your life. Finally, visit that refuge when possible and deepen your relationship with Him. Practice the spiritual disciplines.
Despite your past experiences, find that person, group , or place. Or better yet, be that person, individually or in a group. You know the one who expresses the love of Christ and speaks loving truth- albeit challenging at times– into the lives of others as He does in yours.
Be that person and meet others in the place of refuge. Where? Him. He’s calling.
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