The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe. Proverbs 18:10 (NASB)
Like most Americans, I have followed the news coverage surrounding the death of Usama Bin Laden with great interest. One of the things that I found interesting was the information about the compound where he has apparently been living for the past several years (if the reports are accurate). The house is surrounded by enormously high and thick brick and mortar walls, and appears to be impenetrable to anyone not having special equipment.
My understanding is that a man reported to be Bin Laden was occasionally seen wandering around inside the walls of the compound and was not surrounded by body-guards when he was found by the American forces. He apparently felt safe, and believed he was very safe inside those walls; perhaps he thought he was untouchable.
In Judges 9:51 we read about the strong tower in the center of the city that all the people went to for safety and protection. This was a common strategy during times of war and trouble and everyone knew that if they were inside the walls of the city they were safe from the invaders.
Scripture tells us that God is our strong tower, and unlike the fortresses made by human hands, the refuge of the Lord is impenetrable. Nothing can get inside the walls and harm us unless the Keeper allows it to.
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. John 10:28-29 (NASB)
I am so thankful for God's faithfulness to His children! Do you understand that God is completely trustworthy to protect our precious faith? Even when your circumstances tempt you to believe that everything is in grave danger your eternity is safe, held secure in Christ.
I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!” Psalm 91:2 (NASB)
There are times God sovereignly allows adversity to enter our lives for the specific reason of drawing us to Himself. He has given us the Bible to read and study to prepare us for times of tribulation. What a blessing that His Word is available to us any hour of the day or night- in print and even on the internet! Within its covers we find books and letters of love from our heavenly Father that are written to teach us, encourage us, correct us, and train us in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). We can find incredible consolation and comfort as we read the Psalms and stories of the heroes of our faith. His Word is a strong tower to a frightened and confused soul. God's wisdom and power are there for the Believer to draw from as we struggle and suffer.
In your times of need where do you run? Is it to drugs? Do you run shopping in an attempt to drown fear and panic? Is it your pattern to medicate yourself with created things? Where is your hiding place? Is it in a bar, or in a bottle? Are you seeking comfort in an illicit relationship or in food? Or do you trust that God will go before you and behind you as you journey through your trial? Do you believe that God is bigger than your problems?
If you answer "Yes" to any of the above questions, you must realize that your actions are revealing what you believe. Are your actions belying your words? Is what you do the opposite of what you say you embrace? Where are you running and who are you running to? A time of self-examination may be in order if you see a conflict in your life. Don't wait, begin this process today!