So, the General Election, 2019 is now a part of history - a part that a number of former members of Parliament will be only too eager to forget! I took the time to at least "skim" through the manifestos of the major players in the election. One area that was not given much, if any, space was that of national defence! (I apologise if I simply missed it!).
Yet defence of the realm is, surely, one of the major responsibilities of any government. Certainly, feeling secure is a high priority for many in this unsafe, volatile world. Ask those living in London; or in the southern parts of Israel; or in any of the "hot-spots" - national or urban. I read, earlier today that one private investigation agency (I suspect in the USA!) promises to "work diligently to restore the sense of security and safety that you and your family deserve."
As some may recall, I recently spent the first part of my personal devotions in the Book of Psalms (actually "BookS of Psalms - there are five of them in a single volume!). The composer of Ps. 91 found a place of safety and security. That is good - but what is better is that you and I may rest secure in that same place! The psalmist described it in a number of ways.
First of all, he writes of abiding "... in the shadow of the Almighty," (v.1). Shadows, of course, provide protection from the direct heat of the sun - something that can be very severe in the Middle East! However, even if the heat is severe, being in the shade reduces what we actually feel. When you and I are under the shadow of Father God - being protected by Him - then we do not face the full heat of our difficulties. We may not be removed from them, but His presence enables us to persevere.
The psalmist then goes on to describe Almighty God as "My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust." (v.2). The Creator of all that exists is the strongest protector we could ever have - and we may run to Him for help in any, and every situation. Nothing can get past Him, unless it is as part of His own loving plan for our ultimate good.
The third word-picture that the psalmist draws is in v.4. "... under His wings you will find refuge;" So many have a picture in their minds of God as some kind of celestial police officer, intent on punishing us for every wrongdoing. They have not read, or understood, what is often referred to as "the Gospel in a nutshell". "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him." (John 3:16-17). The God of the Bible is not, of course, some "easy push-over". However, He is soft and tender, like a caring mother bird. Remember when the Lord Jesus wept over Jerusalem? "O Jerusalem , Jerusalem , killing the prophets and stoning those who are sent to you! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you would not!" (Matt 23:37). When troubles rage, He draws us close - if we are willing! We don't need to fear that He will cast us out, if we are His!
Just one more reference from a number of those available. "Because you have made the Lord your refuge, the Most High your habitation, no evil shall befall you, no scourge come near your tent." (vs.9-10). If we are dwelling "in the Lord" He will be our home, our habitation, now and forever!
True security can be found only in the God Who promises to save those who call upon Him; and to hold them close Himself. He is the One Who can be "... Emmanuel" (which means, God with us)." (Matt 1:23) in a personal sense. As the celebration of the birth of the only-begotten of the Father draws close, may all who read these words find, in Him, their refuge, their strength, their eternal hope.