Tag Archives: shelter and security

September 13
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“The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will flourish.” (Proverbs 14:11, NIV)

Generally speaking, houses are more secure than tents. However, most of us would choose a tent erected with integrity over a house marked for destruction.

A house (e. g. life) built on deceit, corrupted morals, or other deficiencies — no matter how grand the house may appear to observers — is destined for destruction. It is far better to dwell in a humble tent with the assurance of God’s protection, than in any house of wickedness.

As disciples of Jesus, we must keep an eternal perspective; even as the rest of the world looks only at tomorrow, or at outward appearances.  If we forgo the fruits of evil, we shall certainly instead receive the rewards of a clear conscience, a good reputation, and the favor of our heavenly Father.  – Luther

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August 20
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“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” (Psalm 91:1-2, NIV)

Today’s psalm reminds us of the connection between where we choose to live and the quality of that life. 

The state of Kansas, where I was born, is known (due to its depiction in the classic movie, “The Wizard of Oz,” as for anything else) as the home of fierce wind storms and tornadoes. Kansas is also a place where a lot of people live in mobile homes. 

People who dwell in a mobile home do not rest easy when wind storms and tornadoes are in the weather forecast. 

Likewise, in life, people whose “shelter” is their wealth, their popularity, their intelligence, or any state or status other than an established and growing relationship with the Lord God will not — cannot — rest easy when these “shelters” are at risk of destruction in the storms of life.  

These storms; whether they be illness, persecution for doing the right thing, the death of a relative or a friend, or enduring a trial of faith, are as natural in the spiritual realm as tornadoes are in the physical realm. 

Where is your dwelling place? Where is your resting place?

For the person who trusts in God, these two places have the same address.  – Luther

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August 16
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“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. Lord Almighty, blessed is the one who trusts in you.” (Psalm 84:11-12, NIV)

Imagine life before the advent of electricity: The activities of everyday living revolved around the hours of daylight. Nighttime activities were severely limited because lamp oil and candles were cumbersome, and expensive, alternatives.

Perhaps we grasp the value of a shield a bit easier, if only because our cars have “windshields” that not only shield us from being buffeted by the wind as we zip along the streets and highways; but from bugs, rocks, and rainwater.  A windshield is a “go/no-go item” for most motorists: If it is in place, you go; if not, you choose to ride with a friend.

The psalmist reminds us that the Lord God is both a sun and shield. Abide in God at all costs, and you will never dwell in darkness. Trust in Him at all times, and He will be your shield from perils both seen and unseen.  – Luther

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