Over the last few days we’ve examined some pretty incredible truths:
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10), but fools despise wisdom, and detest instruction (Proverbs 1:7). With these verses in mind, how much better to take refuge in the Lord than to place ones trust in man?
We’ve learned from many places in the bible, but specifically the verses cited above that a reverential fear of God and a heart that trusts the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and gives us safety from the fear of man.
As we continue to grow, learn, and gain more knowledge of our great God and Savior, we are given wisdom and understanding. But before this honor of wisdom and understanding is bestowed, humility must come first (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Throughout the Bible we see that a trusting faith in the Lord trumps all other fears and failings, as this puts to flight the dread of what man or the world could ever do to us. This does not mean that we are spared from all difficulties or dangers in life, especially when Jesus told us that we should expect trials and tribulations (John 15:19; 2 Corinthians 5:2-6).
Yesterday we talked about the truth that His grace is sufficient as nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:31-39), so, therefore, we can gladly boast in our weaknesses, as through our weaknesses Christ’s strength is perfected (2 Corinthians 12:9).
It’s in His power that we can resist the devil. It’s under the total authority of the indwelling Holy Spirit that we even have the means to put on the Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18), that God Himself provides as a defense against all that seek to destroy us.
We cannot, and will not ever be able to do it alone. Sin infects every single aspect of who we are. Those who take refuge in the Lord and venerate Him with a reverential fear are able to serve Him with worshipful obedience that upholds biblical doctrine and helps us to better align our thoughts and actions with His will. We need to start trusting His unfailing and ever-faithful mercies and stop relying on man for our happiness, comfort, or joy.
John Piper puts it like this: “When tempted to flee the pressures of life, the Scriptures call us to hide ourselves in God. Only God can offer true refuge from life’s dangers and the misery of our sin.”
So today, I want to leave you with this: taking refuge in God does not always mean immediate escape from pain and suffering. God is in control, and completely and utterly undisturbed by any perceived chaos on earth. This doesn’t mean He’s not concerned about what is going on in our life, but it does mean that He’s not panicking (Psalm 2:4). God remains unshaken and eternally in power, which for us provides confidence for which we can claim refuge.
No matter what...
