He is Our Strong Tower

The name of the LORD is a strong tower;

The righteous run to it and are safe.

Proverbs 18:10 (NKJV)

Image this…

We find ourselves in a race to outrun the challenges, issues, and the pain of our lives.  It seems our troubles are about to overtake us, and we run to find shelter or a hiding place to take cover.   We consider the options for relief as this world dictates, but realize those options are only a temporary fix and will leave us feeling just as empty or stressed as we already are.  Just as we are about ready to give up, we see in the distance a place in the hills, a place for help and sanctuary, if only for a moment.  (ref. Psalm 121:1)

Let me be honest, this image is straight out of my imagination.  I have felt the onslaught of frustrations in my job with so many colleagues leaving due to the relentless stress and long hours, health concerns in my family, and everyday household obligations.  While trying to console others, I began to internalize their frustrations and concerns as well.  At one point, I felt like I could not catch my breath.  Around every corner, there was an attempt to steal my joy and peace.  Let’s not kid ourselves, life can be hard and grueling.  When things get tough, we can either flee or fight.

As followers of Christ, there is always another option when the trials of life begin to overwhelm us.  We have a Strong Tower that we can run to and be safe.  A tower is a fortified structure which provides security and protection from the enemy. It is high so that you are elevated and lifted out of the way and above the attacks. The mere name of the LORD is our Strong Tower.  Psalm 91 says, “He who dwells (lives in, stays permanently) the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”  God is our refuge and strength in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1).

When I think of a tower, I can visualize a window high at the top.  This window serves as a lookout for any oncoming advances.  However, God does not need our help as a lookout.  He already knows what is on the horizon and beyond. We don’t need to keep peeking out the window at our situation.  We need to keep our eyes on our Help.  We must trust that He is prepared to aid us and will equip us to fight.  We must remain in the tower and resist the urge to venture out.  We must stay hidden under His wings of protection.  In the Tower, we can focus on the Truth of the challenges so that we gain a spiritual understanding. We are able to acknowledge that these things were meant to destroy us, but God the Father will use them for our good.  Once we have been strengthened and restored, we can return to the fight full of His power and fully equipped to endure the raging battle for our souls.

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Father, thank You for being our Strong Tower.  You are full of Grace and Mercy.  Thank You for giving us a place of refuge from the attacks of the enemy.  You are our Protector and our Keeper.  Thank You for Your Word that tells us that You will never leave us nor forsake us.  In the precious Name of Jesus, I pray.  Amen.