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)
