This one word really stood out in my devotional today.
"...no one is condemned whose
refuge is God." Psalms 34:23
The key to avoiding condemnation? Find refuge in Him. However, what exactly does that mean?
*That which shelters or protects from danger, or from distress or calamity; a stronghold which protects by its strength, or a sanctuary which secures safety by its sacredness; a place inaccessible to an enemy.*
Okay, so let's break this down into three parts. First, a refuge protects from danger and distress. To me, this was the easiest part of the definition. Of course I'll run to God's comforting embrace when I'm in danger or hurting. Don't we all? Usually, we see God as the last resort for when there is no where else to turn. Easy.
Second, a refuge protects by its strength or secures safety by it's
sacredness. Interesting. I think we can all agree that God is all powerful and impressively strong. What I find the most intriguing is the fact that a refuge secures safety by it's sacredness (holiness). Pure strength could easily hide us from danger, but God's own holiness can save us from the enemy. Sometimes we might be tempted to see holiness as a weakness; we might picture some feeble, old woman kneeling in prayer and think that while her 'holiness' is endearing, she sure doesn't pack much of a punch. Wrong!
Holiness may appear differently in people. Some may use their growth in holiness to sit and quietly meditate. However, some of the holiest people (St. Paul for example) used their holiness and love for God to actively and persistently spread the word of God with fervor and enthusiasm. God's holiness is so perfect that, while I'm sure He enjoys a little solemnity at times, it can fervently protect us from harm. How cool is that! Anyways...
Third, a refuge is a place inaccessible to the enemy. How blessedly true that is! Satan and his demons, while they can recognize God's holy name, cannot enter his presence. So much so is the enemy cast away that hell had to exist, the only place where God's presence does not remain. God is our fortress who can and does protect us from the enemy, but
only if we
seek refuge in Him.
Conclusion: We will not be condemned if God is our refuge because He protects us thoroughly through His strength, holiness, and simply electrifying presence.
Alright, that's the end of my lovely reflection, though I see many different directions I could go with some of that information. Have an excellent day and God bless! :D
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