How can we apply the wisdom of seeking refuge in our daily lives? Setting the Scene “But a young man saw them and informed Absalom; so the two of them left quickly and came to the house of a man in Bahurim. He had a well in his courtyard, and they climbed down into it.” (2 Samuel 17:18) Jonathan and Ahimaaz, carrying a life-saving message to King David, are spotted by an enemy boy. Instantly they run, find a sympathetic homeowner, and disappear into a well. The verse is brief, but it overflows with practical wisdom on refuge. Why Refuge Matters • Danger is real—physically, emotionally, spiritually. • God never rebukes His people for seeking protection; He often provides it (Psalm 46:1). • Taking refuge is not cowardice; it is strategic obedience rooted in trust. Seeing the Need Early • Jonathan and Ahimaaz did not ignore the warning sign. • We, too, must notice signals—temptations, toxic conversations, mounting stress—before they overtake us. • Proverbs 22:3: “A prudent man foresees danger and hides himself.” Trusting God’s Creative Provision • Who would think a well could become a hiding place? • The Lord custom-tailors shelters for us: an encouraging phone call, a quiet commute, a supportive church group. • Psalm 91:4: “He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge.” Practical Ways to Seek Refuge Daily 1. Retreat to Scripture – Meditate on a refuge promise each morning: Psalm 62:8; Proverbs 18:10. 2. Cultivate Safe Relationships – Like the unnamed man in Bahurim, godly friends offer cover when life presses. – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 underscores mutual uplift. 3. Guard Digital Gates – Step away from screens that feed fear or impurity; hide in the “well” of quiet. 4. Schedule Sabbath Moments – Even ten minutes of worship music or prayer in the car can reset the heart. 5. Memorize Short “Refuge Verses” – “God is our refuge and strength.” (Psalm 46:1) – “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1) Balancing Refuge and Responsibility • Jonathan and Ahimaaz did not stay underground forever; they emerged to finish their mission (v. 21). • Refuge protects so we can re-enter the fight. • Galatians 6:9 calls us to persevere after refreshing. Living Under the Ultimate Refuge—Christ • Colossians 3:3: “For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” • Every earthly shelter previews the perfect security found in the Savior. • When pressures mount, consciously “climb into” Him through worship and obedience. Walking Forward • Start the day by naming your well—Scripture, prayer, fellowship. • At the first hint of danger, run there. • After renewal, step out boldly, knowing the God who covered you will also carry you. |
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