Its Changing!

The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress. Psalm 46:7 (a)

In the past, building an ancient fortress was not an overnight process.  They did it day by day, brick by brick until they completed. This also applies to building a safe strong house that would stand strong.  This analogy reminds us that knowing God is a process requiring reading the Bible, worship and staying in a community.  This slowly leads into an intimate relationship with God, day by day intentionally.

When we don’t feel safe, we stop growing and spend our energies managing fear and protecting ourselves to keep chaos out so that we can live.  God is our fortress and brings peace to our souls in the middle of confusion in this everchanging world that is filled with danger from different angles.  When we are immersed in God we have freedom to fulfill our God-given destiny rather than being preoccupied with our personal safety. As we get to know better we can remain fearless during the times when the world is falling apart because we have a refuge, strength, and help that is reliable and available at all times.

In John 16:33. Jesus said: “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” He conquered every problem we have and which we will ever face.  As we follow and obey Him, he will lead us into the fortress that enables us have an intimate relationship with God. The Bible reminds us that Jesus is the lion of the tribe of Judah. This symbolizes strength, power, courage, royalty, and authority. This also reminds us of God's power, majesty, courage, leadership, strength, and protection.

The enemy is described as a potential for evil and destruction (like a roaring lion seeking prey). Peter reminds us to “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8. We are fully equipped with the  ammunition to do this because we have the real Lion with us daily by our side who is unchanging!

Pray your response to the Lord personally, meaningfully and genuinely!

Reflection

Take a moment and ask Jesus to help you build your “fortress of peace” in the middle of any threatening circumstance in your life today or this week.