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“The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who
trust in him" - Nahum 1:7I was sitting with a friend once many years ago. He was not someone who would call himself a Christian by any measure. His lifestyle would be a testimony to his clear denial of a greater power in the universe. Lacking inhibitions, self centered and control freak might be the way some would describe him. We were at his home and the phone rang. Just a few seconds into the call, his face turned completely ashen and his smile was gone. The words that came from his lips at that very moment were, "Oh God. When did it happen?" I don't think he even realized the words had left his mouth. He continued on the phone for another 5 minutes, and was obviously shaken when he hung up the phone. His grandfather had passed away and it caught everyone by surprise. He and I sat and talked about his family for a short period before I excused myself and went on my way. Years have passed, but this friend of mine to this day will plainly articulate his beliefs that there is no God and those that believe to the contrary are brain-washed, naive and needing a Supreme Power for no other purpose but to justify their actions.
I've never really gotten past how someone who will argue vehemently that there is no God, will call on God or Jesus Christ in times of trouble. So, who do you turn to when life is difficult and times are tough? Are you one who realizes that God is sovereign and all things do truly work in accordance to His plan, or are you quick to look to blame Him for the mishaps in life? Throughout the Old Testament - Kings, Poets, and Prophets instruct us that we are to take refuge in God during our times of trouble. In Deuteronomy; Ruth; Psalms; Proverbs; Isaiah; Jeremiah and as shown above Nahum we find numerous references to seek God for refuge. If it had to be continually stated and the nation of Israel had to be constantly reminded what makes us think it was an easy concept to grasp.
Let's face it, we are control freaks when it comes to solving lifes problems. There is a little something inside of each of us that wants to take these situations in hand and deliver the answer. It's probably more prevalent in the males (after all we won't even ask directions), but I don't believe the women are exempt as controlling personalities. Things change quickly though when we realize that it's out of our hands. When your child is life-flighted to the hospital an hour away; or when a friend or family member cross country or around the globe is suddenly diagnosed with a terminal illness. These are very real issues in life that force one to question their belief structure. Having a foundation in knowing that there is a God who is in control and is in love with you and those in need, is a comforting refuge for all of us.
There is no promise of a pain free or trouble free life, but there are certainly promises of comfort, peace and love from our Creator. Also, realize though that God's promise of refuge is not strictly for those events beyond our control. These are the most obvious, but we learn in the scriptures that God is our refuge in all things. It's about time we started treating Him like such, wouldn't you agree?
- Rich
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