Our Refuge & Protector

Psalm 91 begins with an invitation to dwell in the “secret place” of the Most High. This is not just a physical place, but a spiritual posture of trust and intimacy with God. When we make God our dwelling place—when we seek Him in prayer, meditate on His Word, and cultivate a relationship with Him—we find ourselves under His shadow, symbolizing His protection and care.

When I was younger, I was terrified of the dark. I would often sprint inside from the car at night or run up the stairs and into my room when the lights were turned off so that nothing could “get” me. Once I got inside the house or my room, I felt safe, and I felt protected. Now that I am older, I’m not so afraid of the dark, but there are still things in life that can be scary, stressful, or challenging. When this happens, we can run to God as He promises to be our refuge and our fortress, to protect us and to save us from harm.

However, God does not promise us that life will be easy. In your life, you will (or maybe already have) see, hear, and experience many hard things and/or trials, but in this; God will be and has been with you. “He will cover you with His feathers­—and he will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways” (Psalm 91:4a and 11). When we know and declare that God is our refuge and our protector, we have nothing to fear because God is with us, He is walking beside us, watching over us, and protecting us. Knowing this can be truly comforting.

Lord, I thank You for being my refuge and fortress. In times of trouble, I choose to dwell in Your presence, trusting in Your promises of protection and peace. Help me to seek You daily and to rest in the assurance that You are with me. I pray that Your angels would guard and protect me in all my ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

• Where are some areas in your life where God has been or can be your shelter?

Nativity Building: Bring your sheep figures close to the shepherd figures. The shepherds were keeping watch at night when they heard the news about baby Jesus!