Exodus 30, Job 20-21, Mark 3:31-49, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Psalm 61: What does it mean to you to have a refuge? I remember as a young mother being so tired. With 4 children the demands of daily life just sucked all of my energy and strength. Every so often I would call my mom and she would say, “Just come home”. She wasn’t inviting me to move in or anything like that. She was saying, come under my roof and let me care for you and the kids long enough for you to be restored and ready to give again. I would drive to her home which was usually a couple of hours away. From the time I walked in the door I felt like I could lay the burden down and be restored. Mom would cook, help with the children, speak life into me, allow me to take a hot bath and even a nap if needed. Within 24 hours I was back in the car but my spirit was renewed. When I think about the word refuge this is one of the things I think about. Listen to how the Psalmist viewed God.
Psalm 61:1 Hear my cry, O God,
listen to my prayer;
2 from the end of the earth I call to you
when my heart is faint.
Lead me to the rock
that is higher than I,
3 for you have been my refuge,
a strong tower against the enemy.
4 Let me dwell in your tent forever!
Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings!

I believe the Psalmist found renewed strength in God. He sought the shelter that comes under the tender wings of one who cares for you. God can be our shelter as well. Even this morning I was pouring out my heart to Him and just being reminded that He is my Provider, Sustainer and Friend. I am so grateful that I can “Put life down” in His very capable hands. He is my refuge, strong tower, shelter and so much more. He can be that for you too sweet friend if you trust Him to be.