By Francesca Lee
In this world, especially right now, there is immense fear, destruction, evil and unknown. Thousands of people fearing for their lives and not knowing what tomorrow will bring. Many countries and people around the world are experiencing tremendous trauma and hardship.
Lately, Psalm 91:4 has been on my heart to pray over those facing such tribulation.
“He will cover you with his feathers; you will take refuge under his wings. His faithfulness will be a protective shield.”
Psalms 91:4 CSB
In this version, as in many other Psalms, the authors use the word refuge. Which means, “a place or situation providing safety or shelter.” Refuge is mentioned 88 times in the Bible.
We are all looking for refuge. What does it mean to seek refuge? For some, that means seeking physical refuge, as in the word refugee. This word comes from the Latin refugium meaning “the act of taking refuge” and in the early 17th century in France, those fleeing religious persecution originated the word réfugié, meaning “gone in search of refuge”. This comes with a lot of unknown and takes great courage to seek a safer place than previously residing.
For others, it means finding mental or emotional refuge from difficult or spiralling thoughts and darkness. Finding peace or a hope when you feel far from it. In those times, I’m reminded in the Psalms where David cries out to the Lord in his distress, “I cried out to God for help; I cried out to God to hear me. When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring hands, and I would not be comforted.” Psalms 77:1-2 NIV. We wonder if God hears us and our heartfelt cries. Praying for even small moments of respite.
For individuals like myself, asking God for refuge from physical ailments and relief from the pain and anguish, not knowing what the future will hold or what the next day will bring. Some days all that you can do is to “Be still, and know that I am God” Psalm 46:10 NIV or Exodus 14:14 NIV “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
It can be difficult to seek refuge or feel God’s love when the world around us or our internal world can feel like they are spinning out of control.
The song “Refuge” by New Creation Church Worship is a wonderful worship track to listen to and to sit and meditate on God’s word. To feel his presence and safety. https://youtu.be/AFH6Z26AKWc?si=sqIN0y9jDq-oQrc6
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest
in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.””
Psalms 91:1-2 NIV
Especially coming up to the holidays, at Christmas time. There is an expectation to feel joy and merriness regardless of our circumstances. Having to spend time with families that may not be harmonious. Or finding yourself alone with no one to turn to. Conversely, being surrounded by people yet feeling so incredibly lonely. On the other hand, facing debt or financial difficulties, which causes immense strain on your physical and emotional wellbeing. Or not knowing if you will be physically safe for the months to come.
We pray this Christmas time, that wherever you are, however you are feeling, with whatever you are going through; that you can find small moments of solitude and refuge in the Lord. That he can cover you in the shelter of his wings.
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