Refuge, Rock, Redeemer

In each of the psalms in this week's readings, David calls God one of these three things - or sometimes all three.  So, let’s look at what each of these terms means.

Refuge:  something that shelters or protects from danger; a stronghold which protects by its strength; a sanctuary which secures safety by its sacredness.

Rock:  something or someone that is extremely strong or reliable.

Redeemer:  someone who repays, recovers, rescues or saves.

It’s obvious why God is all these things to David.

David the shepherd learnt from a young age to rely on God to protect and save him from danger whilst in the fields and hills looking after the sheep.

David the anointed king continued to need that physical protection from a spear-throwing Saul (1 Samuel 18:10) and the spiritual strength to wait for God’s timing to become the king he was anointed to be.

David the king was often under attack from other nations, rebels and even his own sons!  Yet God was still his refuge, rock and redeemer.

We see in many of the psalms he wrote that David would begin them in despair, anger or bewilderment, but always ending by worshipping and praising God.

I doubt any of us has had to endure the battles that David did, but I’m sure we can all identify with feeling insecure, having to wait longer than we expected for God’s promises to be fulfilled or needing to feel safe and protected.

I encourage you, as we read these psalms to say, like David –

“Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge.” Psalm 16:1 NIVUK

“I love you, Lord, my strength.” Psalm 18:1 NIVUK

“Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14 NIVUK

Whatever you may be going through, God is your Refuge, Rock and Redeemer today and every day, so be safe in His protection and worship Him!