How to Seek Refuge in God - Serenity in Suffering

Watching the wildlife in my wooded yard provides me not only with entertainment, but timely lessons from the Creator. Recently, a bustle of activity indicated seasonal changes and the need for more permanent shelter for the coming harsh weather. Interestingly, some animals remain in their “year-round” homes while others seek a warmer climate. Wondering at the way the rabbits poked about for a safe winter haven, I smiled at the way I sometimes deliberate over how and when to seek refuge in God.

The hurried pace of preparation spoke of diligence and intention, all wrapped in a cloak of seriousness, as the days grow shorter.

My smile dimmed as the hurried pace of the squirrels running to and fro across the yard, gave an accurate reflection of my own actions when faced with uncertain times. Panic tinged with a touch of the dramatic defines my search for refuge in God. But, am I making things harder than necessary to truly seek refuge in God?

seeking refuge in uncertainty

Whether facing the uncertain times of political elections, pandemic resurgence, job security, financial security or simply not kowing the weather forecast for an important outdoor event; uncertainty sends us fleeing for shelter in security.

I remember one winter, a pair of cardinals insisted on over wintering in a flimsy arborvitae next to our deck. From my favorite livingroom chair, I had a clear view of them through a sliding glass door.

Though that tree bore the fiercest of winds and most of the snow, those birds refused finding a more secure refuge. The picture of those poor cardinals comes back to me every time I refuse to seek refuge in God, instead choosing a flimsy substitute.

relying on the wrong refuge

While Proverbs 18:10 expounds, “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.” I often prefer the circuitous route, ensuring all other options receive consideration. How many of the following detours have you taken on your way to finding refuge in God?

• Man. Or woman, or child. Seeking refuge in the protection of others, or the advice of others or even the company of others as an escape; rather than heading straight to God with the issue at hand.
• Drug of Choice. “Drugs” come in many forms: entertainment, binge watching, comfort food, alcohol, shopping, working, even sleeping. Any form of escape or avenue for hiding.
• Self-reliance. Obsessive “research” via internet or other avenues for problem solving, relying on your own wisdom (Proverbs 3:7) or abilities.
• Denial. Refusing to accept the problem at all or choosing to remain paralyzed by fear of the future.

Mature faith actively enters into the REST of God and intentionally pursues places of PEACE.

Tripp Prince

seeking refuge in god

When you choose running away or seeking flimsy substitutes for refuge in God, you forfeit the peace and protection of His Presence. We find a beautiful illustration of this in Psalm 91:1, where the Psalmist pictures refuge in God as abiding in His shadow.

I love to envision standing so close to God, I am consumed completely by the shadow of His Presence. No evil, harm or tragedy comes nigh the mighty Presence of God.

Remembering all you gain when you seek refuge in God strengthens your faith to seek Him first for your shelter in troubled times.

god is my refuge

My furry friends sought a refuge for the coming winter; a place of safety, protection and warmth. We know God cares for His creation, but He cares so much more for you. Meditate on all God provides as your refuge in troubled times.

• Protection. From harm, evil, overwhelm and storms of life. “The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” (Deuteronomy 33:27) No one and nothing keeps you like the Father’s everlasting arms.
• Fortress. A impenetrable stronghold where no evil or foul thing can enter. “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer.” (Psalm 18:2)
• Shield. God surrounds you with His strength, deflecting all threats coming against you. “But You, O Lord, are a shield about me, My glory, and the One who lifts my head” (Psalm 3:3)
• Peace. God promises peace in every situation, no matter how chaotic. “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33)
• Rest. In every trial and adversity, Jesus Himself provides rest for those who come. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
• Intimacy. When you seek refuge in God you find the intimacy of being seen and heard by your Heavenly Father as you fellowship with Him. “Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.” (Isaiah 65:24)

how to seek refuge in god

Considering all God provides me as His child when I seek refuge in Him, I marvel at my reluctance to run into the high tower of God the moment I face uncertainty or trial.

God provides everything I need whether I am facing uncertainty, trial, temptation, illness, financial or relationship struggles; if I will but seek refuge in Him. How can I better seek refuge in God?

• Ask. David continually poured out his heart to God in the psalms asking God to intercede for him and he earnestly sought God’s Presence for refuge from his enemies.
• Forsake. Abandon your self-sufficiency and “do-it-yourself” mottos. Stop looking for escape clauses and admit your need for shelter in the storm.
• Trust. Believe that God alone is your refuge and strength. Nothing you can obtain or nothing you can lose is of more value than God Himself.

Taking refuge in God, we find rest and intimacy in His Presence, surrounded by His steadfast love, He lavishes the abundance of His goodness upon us, while covering us with His joy, blessing and favor. Where are you seeking refuge?

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