Every word of God is pure; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. (Proverbs 30:5)
Many in the world are not as fortunate as we are in Hawaii. For many, their home country is in the middle of a war zone, the military is out to hunt them and fellow innocent civilians down, and they cannot go to sleep at night without thinking whether their home will be targeted when they are sleeping. Many in these scenarios seek refuge in another country, crossing treacherous waters or dangerous terrain to seek a better life. They trust their lives and security in that place of refuge. They are willing to leave behind what is dear to them for a better life.
The author of the proverb tells us that every word of God is pure. It is for our good, and we can go to God’s Word at any time for counsel, wisdom, discernment, instruction, and conviction. More than that, God is a shield to those who take refuge in him.
The idea of what it means for a person from a war-torn country to take refuge in a safer land helps us understand what it means to take refuge in God. We are called by God, despite all of our sin, shame, guilt, and troubles, and even the pleasures of our lives, to entrust our lives, our purpose, our security, and all the gifts we have been given, to God. When we are in the midst of the storm, or in happy valleys, we make God our hiding place, the one we turn to for prayer, joy, and guidance at all times.
Are you going through difficult circumstances? Does it seem like there is no end to your trials? Take refuge in God, seek him wholeheartedly, and he will shield you! Our God is powerful and mighty, and will guide you through life’s storms. He will never leave you, nor forsake you. He is our God!