Are we oppressed by troubles? Have we been through difficult times? Every person who has ever lived has experienced troubles and tribulations at some level. Troubles come in all shapes and sizes. And you may be searching for someone to share your troubles and draw strength from? In times of difficulties, it is normal that a person will turn to someone whom he/she is close to such as family members and friends.
However, there is always God whom we can turn to during such times. Psalm 46:1 says that God is our refuge and strength. Refuge here is a place of safety. In troubled times, we need a place of safety, a hiding place and a place for protection, and somewhere we can draw strength from. We know there is our mighty God for us.
Of course, when we are down and out, God is not just our refuge but also our strength. In Psalm 62:7, God is my salvation and my glory; the rock of my strength, and my refuge is in God. God is our strength to help us bear our burdens and sufferings.
Can we be sure and confident that God is our refuge and strength?
Firstly, God becomes our refuge and strength only when we trust in His Word rather than our own personal feelings or personal strength. In Psalm 62:8, we have David’s exhortation to trust in God and wait upon him, as he had done. Trust in God at all times, pour out your heart before Him; God is our refuge.
Secondly, there is a place of protection and safety in God. Psalm 91:2 writes that He is my refuge and my fortress. We need a fortified place, a stronghold which is in God and His Word during troubled times. God is our keeper and we will be safe under His protection. He is also a security for our heart and minds at all times when we are down and in distress.
Lastly, Psalm 62:2, 6, 7 says God is my rock and my salvation. We can be sure that we are safe under His protection and He is our defence in difficult times, and the rock of our strength. Only God can be our rock and salvation and therefore, we have all reason to confide in him.
Finally, let’s end with Isaiah 41:10 – Fear thou not; for I am with thee; be not dismayed; for I am thy God; I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee;
These verses help us to overcome our fear in times of trouble and not be discouraged. God is with us all the time.