By Kiyaka Brian

HE IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH

In Psalms 46:1-2, David says that the Lord is our refuge and strength, and an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear though the earth gives way and falls into the heart of the sea. At some point, we all experience hard times and we are unable to find a solution. But as Christians, we first need to trust in the Lord then work out a strategy. Through David’s words we are able to see how deeply he trusts in the Lord. But what we also must understand is how to perceive situations.

Life has ups and downs and it will always. So let’s change how we see life. We all want good things to happen to us but you know what, bad things also happen! We will go through trials, troubles, and tribulations. From those experiences we should grow better and avoid becoming bitter. Ever heard that bad things happen to good people? In our understanding this is unfair, but that’s not what the case at all. “Bad things,” are sometimes just a process that is yet to be completed.

God does not look upon trouble as we do. Where we see difficulties, He sees opportunities. The Lord’s intention is to equip us with great experiences and testimonies during these times. They are meant to educate us and build us up. Personally, I relate this to movies. Almost all have a good ending to the plot. The action, conversation, investigation, research, and tough times all eventually lead to the success or accomplishment of the tasks therein.

The greatest lesson we learn from the book of Job is that God does not have to answer to anyone for what he does or does not do. Job’s experience teaches us that we may never know the specific reason for suffering, but we must trust in our sovereign, holy, righteous God. His ways are perfect. Since God’s ways are perfect, we can trust that whatever He does and whatever He allows is also perfect. We can’t expect to understand God’s mind perfectly, as he reminds us - For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.

I am convinced that one way to spread the gospel is to let everyone understand that the Lord is our refuge and strength. Vices like substance abuse by the youth or even older people are usually a key sign that one lacks faith in God to be able to trust the process. In Romans 8: 28 we get to know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him and who have been called according to his purpose.

Discussion Question

What is your “go-to” escape that you typically run to for relief?