Refuge

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Where is that place? Is it on a deserted beach or in a cabin deep within the Douglas fir? The site of refuge. The location you feel safe and secure—the place where you can let down your guard and just be yourself. Do you have such a place?

Or is it a person? Someone with whom you can be accountable. That kindred Spirit who knows you, and despite your quirks, cares. You know, 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. You know, a person like the Father in the Parable of the Prodigal. (Luke 15:11-32)

Joy

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. However, God calls us to take refuge in Him. Remarkably, to “taste and see that the Lord is good.” The benefit of the test, despite the disappointment, pressures, difficulties of life? 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 right 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.

Turn

Where is your refuge? Who do you turn to when stuff starts to spiral? You know when you realize you are knee-deep in it, and you know the “it.” Where do you turn when life closes in on you? 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.

Despite your past experiences, find that person or group. Or better yet, be that person, individually, or in the 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.  

“Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!”

– Ps. 34.8