Coastal towns in California are famous for cool and moderate temperatures year-round, even during the summers. But if you live inland, it’s an entirely different story, especially during the summers. I’m talking triple digits! But I’ve discovered that if you sit under the shade of a tree on a scorching summer day, it’s not so bad at all.
That’s exactly what I did on one of the hottest days last week. I got home, grabbed a cold drink, and sat on my favorite seat on our deck, underneath the shade of a wild plum tree canopying overhead. It was peaceful. It was restful. It was refreshing. It was exactly what I needed.
The Bible brings this exact image to mind when it comes to our trials and our need for refuge. Life can throw plenty of afflicting heat our way. But as David discovered, God himself—much like a tree on a hot summer day—was his Refuge, in whom he found peace, rest, and restoration. “The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed,” sang David, “a stronghold in times of trouble” (Psalm 9:9). He affirmed, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold” (Psalm 18:2).
This theme is repeated over and over in the psalms, and for good reason—we need the reminder. Has life turned up the heat on you lately? Rediscover God as your Refuge. Turn to him. Cling to him. Spend time in prayer with him. And find peace, rest, and restoration under “the shadow of [his] wings” (Psalm 36:7).
Comments