Refuge

Psalms is filled with verses about the Lord being our shelter, our hiding place and refuge in times of trouble. Life will always be full of challenges but in the times when the storm feels as if it may overtake me I have learned to run to the Lord. He is my strength, and comforter. He speaks peace to my soul when the enemy roars and covers me with His hand.

Hard times are never enjoyable but the more I experience His deliverance and strength the more the storm strengthens my faith in who God is. It’s the continual experience of knowing how weak I am. Knowing how much in need I am of a savior, and every time being protected. I hate the trial but in my carnality it reminds me of what is so easy to forget when all is well. Who needs supernatural peace when things are perfect? Who needs healing and restoration when all is well? Who needs encouragement when there’s no fight?

The storm is not quite the scary experience it once was because each time I am humbled and in awe of how God brings me through. They have grown more challenging and required more trust but Jesus takes the trials of our life to cultivate who He has called us to be. One thing I can say with confidence, that experience has only taught, is I know my God is faithful. I know that every word in His word is true because there have been times I’ve had to cling to it. We are told that the testing of our faith produces perseverance which produces character. You are being perfected through the very thing trying to take you down. Do not be overcome by the challenges of life, but run to your Heavenly Father who has overcome all things. He has all power, all supply, all answers, all deliverance and He will bring you through.

Psalm 32:6-8 Therefore let all the faithful pray to you while you may be found; surely the rising of the mighty waters will not reach them. You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.

Psalm 91:1-4 Those who go to God Most High for safety will be protected by the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “You are my place of safety and protection. You are my God and I trust you.” God will save you from hidden traps and from deadly diseases. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you can hide. His truth will be your shield and protection.

Pastor Natalie Snider