In what ways can we apply the concept of refuge in our lives today? A Strong Tower in a Chaotic Chapter “Inside the city was a strong tower to which all the men and women, all the people of the city fled. They locked themselves in and went up to the roof of the tower.” (Judges 9:51) Abimelech’s attack on Thebez was brutal. The townspeople had one hope: a solid tower, a place where the enemy’s weapons could not reach them. Scripture routinely turns such images into living illustrations of God’s own character. The True Refuge behind the Metaphor • Psalm 46:1 — “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” • Proverbs 18:10 — “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” • Nahum 1:7 — “The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of distress; He cares for those who trust in Him.” Every earthly tower can crumble, but the living God never does. The physical tower of Thebez points us to the unfailing refuge found in His person, His promises, and His presence. How We Run to the Refuge Today 1. Turn first, not last, to the Lord • Cultivate an instinct that goes to prayer before panic. • Psalm 62:8 — “Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts before Him. God is our refuge.” 2. Speak His Name aloud • Proverbs 18:10 calls the Lord’s name a tower; saying it reinforces trust and sets the mind on truth. 3. Hold tight to His Word • Psalm 119:114 — “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in Your word.” • Keep refuge verses memorized and visible (phone lock-screen, sticky notes, journal margins). 4. Lean into the fellowship of believers • Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us that meeting together stirs us up to love and good works. • A healthy church family is a tangible “tower” when life’s siege intensifies. 5. Receive the peace Jesus promised • John 14:27 — “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you.” • Philippians 4:6-7 shows that prayer plus thanksgiving ushers in peace that “guards” our hearts. Building Refuge Habits Daily rhythms that keep us inside the tower: • Morning “checkpoint”: begin the day with a psalm of refuge (e.g., Psalm 91) before checking news or social media. • Brief, repeated prayers: “Lord, be my strong tower right now.” • Weekly Sabbath: step back from work and screens to rest in Him. • Accountability partner: someone who lovingly asks, “Have you run to the Refuge or tried to manage alone?” Becoming a Safe Tower for Others God often shelters people through His people. • Offer practical help: meals, childcare, a listening ear—creating space where burdens feel lighter (Galatians 6:2). • Speak Scripture over those in crisis, anchoring them to truth when emotions swirl. • Keep confidences; a tower with broken walls isn’t safe. • Model hope: show how God’s past faithfulness fuels present courage. Anchoring Our Hearts in His Promises • Isaiah 26:3 — “You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You.” • Hebrews 6:18 — “We who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be strongly encouraged.” • Psalm 31:3 — “You are my rock and my fortress; lead me and guide me for the sake of Your name.” The tower at Thebez was temporary; our refuge in Christ is eternal. Keep running to Him, keep the doors barred behind you, and rest on the rooftop—safe, secure, and ready to watch His victory unfold. |