“The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.” Psalm 9:9
King David praised God for being a just Judge who delivered him from those who hated him (9:1-20). He affirmed that “the Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble” (9:9). The Hebrew word for “refuge” (misgab) literally refers to a “mountain refuge” or “a high place of security and protection.” When David was “oppressed” or bullied by his enemies who hated him, he often sought refuge in the mountains where he was safe and secure. But he regarded the Lord as the best Refuge of all. In His presence there was safety and security that could not be taken away from him.
Where do we go when we feel insecure and vulnerable? Where do we turn when we face dangers and difficulties? Some people may turn to an addiction (e.g. alcohol, drugs, pornography, social media, work, worry, etc.) to medicate their feelings and forget about their difficulties. But addictions only numb the pain for a time and actually cause more pain and shame in the long run.
If King David were sitting next to us right now, I believe he would advise us to run to the Lord for the safety and security we long for during times of trouble and vulnerability. In fact, I believe the apostle Paul would echo that advice. In the book of Ephesians, the apostle Paul informs us where the Lord Jesus Christ is seated in relation to His enemies: “20…which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come” (Ephes. 1:20-21). Christ is seated far above all His enemies, including the devil.
According to Ephesians 2:6, where are you and I seated? “And raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” When God the Father looks to His right and sees His Son seated in a place of power above all other authorities, including the devil, He sees us sitting there with Him. What happened to Jesus 2,000 years ago happened to you when you believed in Christ for salvation. So if we are seated with Jesus, guess where we sit today in relation to the devil? Far above him.
In God’s eyes, we are now seated in a position of power and victory over all the opponents of God. Satan cannot really get to us unless we let him. There is safety and security in the heavenly places. We need to go up high where God is located so the Enemy cannot get to us. We do this through prayer and abiding in the truth of God’s Word (John 8:31-32; 15:7). God wants you to know that in Christ, you are safe and secure far above all other authorities and powers.
Prayer: Precious Lord Jesus, when I feel insecure and vulnerable, I resolve to run to You because You alone are my Refuge. I can find safety and security next to You in the heavenly places far above all other authorities and powers. You are the only One I trust to always keep me safe and secure. In Jesus’ name. Amen.