“The name of the Lord is a strong tower.” Proverbs 18:10 NIV

“Quiet times, safe places, and special friends are where you find refuge and rest in God.”

My thoughts today are about “safe places.”

In Gordon MacDonald’s excellent book, “Restoring Your Spiritual Passion,” he states that every person needs: a calendar where quiet times are scheduled, a map marking your safe places, and an address book where special friends’ contact information is stored. Quiet times, safe places, and special friends are where you find refuge and rest in God. There are scary things that happen in everyday life, and not nearly as many people and places where you will feel safe. I find my family, friends, and church families such a refuge when I have no place to turn.

When King Saul hunted David with murderous intent, David was forced to seek safety in the cave of Adullam, and he was not alone in seeking such a place. “All those who were in distress, or in debt, or discontented gathered around (David); and he became their leader.” 1 Samuel 22:2 NIV. Life had become dangerous and discouraging; David needed a safe place to regroup and recoup. Later he wrote, “One thing I ask of the Lord – the thing I seek most – is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life . . for He will conceal me there when troubles come; He will hide me . . out of reach on a high rock. Then I will hold my head high, above my enemies who surround me.” Psalm 27:4-6 NLT.

I have been privileged to visit and minister in England many times across the years, being graciously hosted by my friend, Andrew. I am fascinated with stately England, with its rich history of Kings and Knights and Lords and Ladies. I love the ancient castles with their striking architecture and elaborate interiors. In an early visit, I learned about a Castle Keep, “usually a large tower as a castle within a castle that was a fortified residence and armory, used as a last resort should the rest of the castle fall to an adversary.” The Castle Keep provided a safe place from which to defend, which also allowed the time and means to regroup against an adversary.

That’s the picture I envision when Solomon wrote, “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Proverbs 18:10 NIV. I observe that a tower is a good place to go when you need to get away from danger, and need to rise above adversity. Does that sound like something you might need right now?

Here’s where you can find that safe place any time you need it: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower . .” God’s name expresses His reputation and describes His character – safe places where you can trust and rest. In God, you will always find a quiet time, a special Friend, and a safe place. Read Psalm 61:1-4 NKJV. Rest assured; “Your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:3.

My prayer for you today is that your soul rests in God, safe and secure.