Refuge
"God does not guarantee us a life free from trouble, but He does promise to be our refuge in the midst of the storm" (Kathy Howard).
Psalm 18 is the fourth longest in the entire collection and the longest of Book 1 of the Psalms. David praises and thanks the Lord for all the victories the Almighty has given the shepherd king. The four most prevalent words in the psalm are Lord (Yahweh, 18x), God (el-ohim, 10x), salvation/save (9x), and enemies (6x). In this Psalm, David reminds everyone that it is not because of his greatness that these battles were won. The Lord God has saved Israel from her enemies!
Throughout this Psalm, Davis uses many terms to describe the Lord and what God has done metaphorically. Nowhere is that more true than in verse two. Note the descriptive terms as David declares God is:
ROCK: This is translated from a word meaning a high cliff or a stronghold. God provides security and a clear perspective.
FORTRESS: This is from a word meaning a mountain or rock bunker where one resides as a hiding place that is impenetrable by foes. God is the One to Whom we can retreat for protection.
DELIVERER: This Hebrew term would be one who can free or save others who are in danger. Only He can save.
ROCK: This is a different word than the prior word translated as "rock." It means a giant rock, mountain, or rocky ground. The Lord is immovable and the foundation for all we do.
SHIELD: David, the soldier, would know the value of this defensive weapon, which protected him from attacks. He describes God as One who defends us from any who would attack, including Satan's fiery darts.
HORN: This was seen as a symbol of power in the offensive force horned animals can use. God alone is the power that brings salvation.
STRONGHOLD: Yet another Hebrew word describing high walls or a rocky fortress. This emphasizes the stable protection God provides for those in need.
MINE: Note that these descriptions begin with "my." Yes, the Lord is all of these things for all His people, but He is also mine. So, no matter what I am going through, He provides salvation. He is my refuge. Make Him yours as well. When life is challenging, run to Him. I love you, and God does, too!
Corey Sawyers is the preaching minister for the Martin Church of Christ and an adjunct instructor for Bear Valley Bible Institute. He is Melody's husband and Daddy to Garrett (and Bailey), Gordon (and Lauren), and Gannon. We hope you will join us at Martin Church of Christ this Sunday as we study a Thanksgiving Psalm!
