“The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him, but with an overwhelming flood he will make an end of Nineveh; he will pursue his foes into darkness.” (Nahum 1:7-8 NIV)
From a human viewpoint, it may seem easier to oppose God than to trust him.
When we look around us and consider all the results of a fallen nature, we can see how people might reject God and his plan for restoration. We’ve been taught all our lives to be leery of what we can see and believe nothing else. With all the schemes and scams rampant in our world, such training may serve us well. Yet, it becomes a stumbling block to our faith.
So, where is the fine line of balance between protecting ourselves from deception and exhibiting faith and trust? It is at the point of remembering that God is good and our refuge at all times, but especially in trouble. He cares for us! You can repeat that for every need.
It is also a good point to pray. We commit ourselves anew to our stronghold. Trouble may come, disaster may strike, and the enemy may rage up and down, but our stronghold, Jesus Christ, knows us. He knows that we trust in him. Remind ourselves, “if your faith is the size of a mustard seed” that is enough to move the mountain-size obstacles in our lives.
And lastly, remember that God pursues his foes until they are no longer a threat to his children. His foes do not have a chance of victory against the One who can cast them into outer darkness. So without fear and in faith we say, “If God is for us, who can be against us!”
Our God is an awesome God who loves and cares for those who trust him.
Dear Father, thank you for your shepherding care and the protection of your sheepfold. Empower us to trust you in every situation and circumstance of life. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be courageous today in your refuge of trust,