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A Refuge in times of trouble
Eva. Sam Abraham, MSW, LCSW

                  We live in an increasingly dangerous world. This sobering observation is becoming all too clear and painfully obvious in light of recent traumatic events in America, particularly with the tragic incidents of violence in our schools. In addition, anxiety surrounding global conflicts, the Y2K phenomenon, economic instability, terrorism, and ethnic strife permeate our social fabric. There is much discussion in media circles about these challenges, including their causative factors and possible solutions. Despite the advice or predictions of these experts, there is little offered in the way of solid, satisfying answers to address the general state of despair and uneasiness that challenges us every time we pick up the newspaper or watch the evening news on television.

                  In these perilous times, God's word provides hope and direction to the believer who actively seeks His guidance. This article will highlight two truths that facilitate the trust we have in God, which allows us as Christians to cope with the uncertainty in our everyday lives.

1. The Sovereignty of God:

                 We have an absolute conviction that God is in control. This profound statement quells fear and uneasiness far beyond anything that the world can ever offer. This means that everything that happens whether in our individual lives or in the world as a whole - is part of His master plan. Mathew 10:30 states: "And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered" (NIV throughout). I cannot conceive of a more comforting reality than the knowledge that the Almighty God is all - knowing and all - powerful. God is indeed bigger than all of our problems, anxieties, and fears. "For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those hearts are fully committed to him" (II Chronicles 16:9). The Creator is, simply put, the sustainer of everything. He is also unchanging ; throughout the ages He has been the only constant in a tumultuous world.

2. The Character of God:

                        Our heavenly Father - through the person of Jesus Christ - feels and understand every fear, anxiety, and pain that we experience as human beings. The author of Hebrews expounds on this by depicting a picture of Christ as the high priest who can "sympathize with our weaknesses". The very name of God is a refuge: "The name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous run to it and are safe" (Proverbs 18:10). The Bible declares that in the day of trouble, the Lord will keep us "safe in His dwelling" and hide us "in the shelter of His tabernacle" (Psalms 27:5).

                        Throughout the Bible there are countless examples where saints of God proclaimed the safety of God's shelter. In Moses' blessing of the Israelites, he points out "The eternal God is our refuge, and underneath are everlasting arms" (Deuteronomy 33:27). The place of God's rest is depicted as the shadow of His wings, the Rock, the Shield, the Secret Place, the Stronghold, and in many other ways. These pictures of God's presence and power can help transform us from mere survivors to overcoming Christians who will face the problems in our lives and in the world with the assurance that the Lord is watching over us at all times. Let us remember the words of our Lord Jesus, as recorded in John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world".