Domestic violence is more prevalent than we think. Just because we cannot see it doesn’t mean it’s not happening out there or within our own circles. Often the beatings and punches and blows are not on the face. A facial wound or bruise would cause suspicion outside the home, increasing the risk of being reported. Is there a safe haven for women and children in your community if they need to run for safety? Be sure you do not stay in such a situation and be sure to assist others in getting out of harm’s way. Sadly, animal shelters often outnumber designated shelters for women and children by a long shot.
(If you haven’t already read Gary Dempster’s story or Janet Oaks’ story on heaven4sure, be sure to read them.)
It’s a tragedy that so many are physically, sexually, emotionally and psychologically at risk due to the various forms of abuse. This can happen in a Christian home and also in a local church. Such tragic situations must be uncovered and fully dealt with. However, that horrific form of abuse is not the subject of this Bible Bite. The focus of this post is a safe spiritual place to find shelter when confronted with the storms of life.
Is there a shelter for the spiritually battered? Maybe you are going through a very difficult time right now. You’re experiencing one blow after another and live in fear, wondering where the next hit will come from. You feel vulnerable and exposed and defenceless. At this point, nothing would surprise you. You feel alone in your struggle, and because of the nature of your situation, you think you can’t even confide in a close Christian friend.
Is there a shelter – a safe house for you? Thank God there is! There was, and there will always be.
The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know Your name put their trust in You, for You, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You. Psalm 9:9-10
Eugene Peterson’s freestyle rendering of this verse goes like this: “God’s a safe house for the battered, a sanctuary during bad times. The moment you arrive, you relax; you’re never sorry you knocked.”
Yes, David experienced this shelter during difficult periods of his life; but in Psalm 9, he’s scanning the distant future when the saints of God and many others will be at great risk as they await the return of Christ, who will defeat every foe in earth’s final battle. But you can claim this verse today as well. This safe haven is available to you this very day.
If you’re oppressed, battered or in trouble, run to the safe house. Christ! You can relax in His presence once you have poured out your heart to Him. You can just sit there or kneel there or lie there and enjoy His healing therapies. You may not even be in the condition of mind to formulate a coherent prayer. Just come inside with all your fretting anxieties, your wet cheeks and red eyes, your running nose and twisted facial muscles; come with your soggy, tear-drenched tissues – just enter. He WILL minister to all your needs with love, tenderness, grace, forgiveness and untiring patience.
For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:15-16
Early in the 1800s, Hugh Stowell wrote a beautiful hymn. If you don’t know the tune, you can click on the link provided. From every stormy wind that blows,
Don’t hesitate to share a thought from your personal experience or a verse that has been a blessing to you – in the comment section below. Or, if you would like to reach out privately, click below.
