Refuge of Joy

“But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.”
Psalm 5:11

The dictionary has several definitions for the word refuge. First, refuge is a shelter or protection from danger, trouble etc. Next, refuge is a place of shelter, protection or safety. The psalmist is talking about the refuge we can find in God and asks God to spread His protection over us. The psalmist also tells us that those who do seek God’s refuge and protection will find joy there as well – reason to rejoice.

We all know that life is not easy – we face trials and storms all the time. A friend dealing with cancer, the loss of a loved one, unemployment, natural disasters and relationships that are struggling are just some of the things we face in our world. Yet in the midst of all this we can find refuge in the One who created us and in that refuge there is joy to be had. Scripture often describes God’s protection as the wings of a protective bird – a mother hen or a majestic eagle. Beneath His wings we are safe even as the storm rages all around us – even as it rages in us to the very depths of our souls.

The last definition from the dictionary says this about the word refuge – anything to which one has recourse for aid, relief or escape. That sounds like my God – does it sound like yours? Today run to the Refuge of Joy and find the aid, relief or escape that you need for whatever you are facing.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for being our refuge, our shelter, our protection. May we rejoice within your protective embrace as we face the storms of life. In the name of Jesus Amen.