ICS Daily Devotions
God Is Our Refuge and Shelter
When we face problems in life, many of us make the mistake of running around looking for solutions horizontally, man to man. We may look for the “who and who” of society for them to be able to grant us some favours, give us some business deals and we seldom depend on God. It is only when our human resources and connections run out, then we turn to God. By then, our problems are at a critical stage when we need quick and important decisions.
Instead we should habitually come before God and learn to be still. A vertical relationship with God will give us God’s solution and perspective. Allow Him to speak to us and be patient, Do not act until we hear something from Him. Although human godly advice is important, it is best coupled with God’s advice and solution.
Psalms 46:1-2 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.2. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.
God is our refuge. Refuge is defined as shelter from pursuit, danger or trouble offered by a place/person. Many of us build our refuge in man/things (eg. bosses, spouse, positions, investments etc). While it may be necessary to have these in our lives because we live in this world, but they can collapse, be shaken, or changed in an instant.
If we do not have God as our refuge and tribulations strike, we may make a lot of hasty and bad decisions. There may also be many well-meaning voices that do more harm than good. In those challenging times, we need to focus on one familiar voice that we can trust. Therefore we shouldn’t take refuge in God only during difficult times but to take refuge in Christ daily, so that we will not panic in difficult times. As we take time to spend with God, we are building that familiar place where God meets us and speaks to us in quiet assurance.
In times of tribulations, fear will pursue us. It is very real and can be tormenting. Fear can grip or paralyse a person because of the unknown. During these times, we need to run to God our refuge and strong tower, and soak in His presence.
When we take refuge in God, we need to do these things:
– Be still in a posture of humility to seek Him
– Be ready for Him to speak to us through His Word/Holy Spirit to bring into our remembrance His Word
– Have faith in Him and hold on to the Word that He has spoken to us
– Be a blessing to others
It is important not to be bitter because of life experiences but to praise God because He is faithful and will watch over us.
Sermon Series: Be Still and Know that I Am God
