The tornado hit hard. Trees were uprooted. Powerlines were down. And the bleachers where our baseball game was scheduled were destroyed. We huddled together in our dugout bench area, covering our heads with our baseball gloves. Once it seemed the worst was over, we ran to our cars and headed for safety. We needed a place of refuge.

We all need a place of refuge. Life hits us hard and uproots what we thought was secure. Our strength is broken down. If we are fortunate, we huddle with others, but even then, no person can save us from the storm. Only One can.

Deuteronomy 33:27 (NIV)
The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms….

The Hebrew word maon is translated into English as “refuge” or “dwelling place.” This name for God explains his protection and his care. God is the One we run to for safety. This tender expression for God is described in Isaiah 40:11. The prophet said, “[God] will tend his flock like a shepherd: he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom….” Like a shepherd, God holds us close to his heart. He carries us with his strong, everlasting arms.

The eternal God is your refuge. He provides safety and security. He cares for you and carries you. He protects you with his powerful, eternal arms. The Hebrew word translated to “arms” also means “forearms.” God’s strong forearms are holding you up. God cradles you like a mother cradles her newborn baby. His grasp on you is eternal. He will never let you go. Even when the storm hits…he is your refuge.

Heavenly Father,
I run to you, my refuge. I run to you for safety and protection. I need you to hold me today. I need you to cradle me in your arms and hold me close to your heart. Let me feel your grasp. Thank you for never letting me go. In Jesus’ name. Amen.