How can we apply the concept of refuge in our spiritual lives today? Setting the Scene “Kibzaim, and Beth-horon—four cities—” (Joshua 21:22). The verse sits inside a paragraph listing Levitical towns. Verse 21 has already named “Shechem, a city of refuge for the manslayer” (v. 21). These adjacent verses remind us that Israel’s priests lived in and around the very places God appointed as safe havens. The physical nearness of Levites to the cities of refuge paints a living picture of how God Himself stands ready to shelter anyone who runs to Him. Tracing Refuge through Scripture • Numbers 35:11—“Select some cities to be your cities of refuge…” • Psalm 46:1—“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.” • Proverbs 18:10—“The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” • Hebrews 6:18—“…we who have fled to Him for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us.” Together, these passages show a single, unbroken line: God provides a place, a Name, and ultimately a Person in whom sinners and sufferers can hide. Why the Cities Matter Today 1. They were open to all who acknowledged need (Numbers 35:15). 2. The gates never closed; access was immediate. 3. The manslayer had to stay inside until the high priest’s death (Numbers 35:25). 4. Levites maintained and taught within those cities—truth and refuge went hand in hand. Each detail points forward: Christ is our always-open gate (John 10:9), our High Priest whose death settles our guilt (Hebrews 9:26), and the Truth who indwells His people (John 14:6-17). Living the Reality of Refuge • Run, don’t stroll. – When conviction, fear, or temptation strikes, follow the manslayer’s urgency. Flee at once to Jesus through confession and faith (1 John 1:9). • Stay inside the walls. – Abide in His Word daily (John 15:7). Safety is found in remaining, not just visiting. • Trust the finished work of the High Priest. – Jesus’ death means the sentence is satisfied; no avenger can lawfully touch those sheltered in Him (Romans 8:1). • Let the local church function as a visible refuge. – Like Levites in their towns, believers today steward places of sound doctrine, justice, and mercy (Ephesians 4:11-16). • Become a living signpost. – Point weary travelers to the Refuge by sharing the gospel, practicing hospitality, defending the vulnerable, and keeping the “gates” open (Isaiah 1:17; 1 Peter 3:15). Practical Steps for the Week 1. Memorize Proverbs 18:10 and speak it aloud whenever anxiety flares. 2. Set aside a short daily “refuge moment” to read Psalm 46 and thank God for specific protections you experienced that day. 3. Identify one person burdened by guilt or fear and intentionally invite them to church or a Bible conversation, offering to walk with them into the Refuge. 4. Examine your home and schedule: where can you create margin to host or help someone in crisis, mirroring the open gates of the ancient cities? Closing Encouragement The Levitical town list in Joshua 21:22 may seem like simple geography, yet every stone in those cities preached, “There is safety here.” Today, the message is louder and clearer in Christ. Flee to Him, live within His walls, and hold the doors wide for others. |
    |