One year during my vacation, I walked along the shoreline of a large
lake. As I approached a pile of boulders, I noticed a small alcove between the
rocks and observed that a tiny plant had taken root there. The plant appeared
to be absorbing the right amount of sunlight and water, and it was also getting
something else: protection. No downpour or windstorm would ruffle
its tender leaves.
The plant’s secure habitat reminded me of these familiar hymn lyrics:
“Rock of Ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in Thee.” Those words express
what many of us want when we encounter people with evil intentions—people
characterized by pride, cruelty, and a lack of regard for God (Ps. 94:4-7).
When we are the target of someone’s wrongdoing, we can remember the testimony of
the psalmist: “The Lord has been my defense, and my God the rock of my refuge”
(v.22).
As our rock, God is dependable and strong. As our refuge, He can provide
safety until problems pass. The psalmist reminds us: “Under His wings you shall
take refuge” (Ps. 91:4). With God as our defender, we don’t have to fear what
others will do. We can trust that God will support us when trouble comes.
Refuge can be found in the Rock of Ages. (RBC)
