The Lord is a refuge

NewCreation435

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Psalm 9:9-10 says this
9 "The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.
10 And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee."


You see this word refuge is translated as stronghold in the NASV. The same word is used 17 times in the Old Testament. In various places it is translated as defence (seven times), refuge (five times), high tower (three times). It is used in Psalm 18:2; 46:7; 46:11; 48:3; 59:16; 59:17; 62:6 and 94:22 among other places. The transliterated word is misgab which means a high place, refuge, secure height, retreat or stronghold. You notice here in verse 9 the word is used twice for emphasis.


I suppose it was natural to think when David was in Jerusalem as the city itself is often referred to as a stronghold because of it's high place. I think of a refuge is a place of safety and strength. That even as life is stressful and difficult that with God at our side we can see through the dark places in life and in this day and age. I take comfort from the fact that He does not forsake those who seek Him.


Hebrews 13:5 has also said
"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."
 

MennoSota

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When I think of refuge or stronghold for the believer, I think of the faith that God will give to us to endure. It is a spiritual and emotional stronghold, not necessarily a physical one. Far too many saints have perished at the hand of evil or nature. While they died, God remained their stronghold and refuge.
 

NewCreation435

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When I think of refuge or stronghold for the believer, I think of the faith that God will give to us to endure. It is a spiritual and emotional stronghold, not necessarily a physical one. Far too many saints have perished at the hand of evil or nature. While they died, God remained their stronghold and refuge.

Yes, it doesn't really mean a physical place as much as it does that whatever happens to us that God is still with us. I think of Joseph in the Bible how his brothers sold him into slavery and then he was cast into prison. Yet, even then the Bible repeatedly says that the Lord was with him.
 
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