“This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles” (Psalm 34:6).
I recall one morning soon after dropping my daughter at school there was a brief incident with her schoolmates—someone said something that hurt her. Fortunately I had not yet left. Seeing me nearby, she rushed over and told me what had upset her. I bent down, gave her a deep hug, and stayed close until she regained her confidence and returned to play with the others.
As believers in Christ, we enjoy a similar privilege. When challenges come, we have somewhere—and Someone—to run to. Scripture repeatedly assures us of God’s readiness to protect and comfort: Proverbs 18:10 says: “The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” And Psalm 9:9 declares, “The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” Then Psalm 62:8, notes: “Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” (Psalm 62:8).
Children who grow up with present, caring parents, know the security of having someone to run to in difficulty. That confidence steadies them. Sadly, not everyone experiences this. Many grow up without supportive parents and feel the ache of having no safe place to turn.
Yet thankfully we who know Christ are never left without refuge. In every distress we can run to Him and find ourselves welcomed into the loving arms of our heavenly Father. What a privilege!
If you are facing anything that is troubling or unsettling you today, remember: you have a sure place to go and arms that are already open and waiting. For He says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”( Mathew 11:8).
Reflection: When challenges arise, where do I run? Do I truly know that the Lord is ready and waiting to receive me?
Prayer: Lord Almighty God, what a blessing it is to know that in every challenge I have a place to run. I come to You now in full confidence that You are ready to receive me and care for me. Thank You. I pray this in Jesus’ name!
