God is Our Refuge

Jun 4

These were the cities designated that anyone who killed a person without intent could flee there. (Joshua 20:9)

Josh. 20; Deut. 19:1-10; Num. 35:6-15; Ps. 62:7-8; Heb. 6:18-20

What Is God Saying?

The cities of refuge, three on each side of the Jordan, were set aside as places where anyone who caused the death of another by accident, or without intent, could come to receive asylum and protection. Although the avenger might be in pursuit to dispense justice in anger, it was possible for the one who killed unintentionally to be protected until they had a chance to state their case before the congregation. The right of asylum is an ancient custom that persisted through the Middle Ages, when cathedrals served as a refuge and a sanctuary, a place to find understanding, protection, and justice.

How Does This Apply To Us?

It is true that most of us, with or without intent, have quenched the spark of faith in someone else's heart, shaken the confidence, and destroyed the hope of another person. Needing a city of refuge we have also failed to be a refuge for those seeking asylum—a place for forgiveness, a time to forget past mistakes, and a time to press on to future victories. Thank God, who is our refuge—he forgives the past, he comforts in the present, and guides us into the future.

Pray With Me

God of mercy, I thank you for your gracious restraint. You know, dear Lord, when I have walked with a destructive mood and careless steps on the life of another. Forgive this sin. I confess my wrongdoing. I want to conquer the things I know I am doing and should not do. I want to start doing the things I know I’m not doing that I should. I have spoken the careless word. I have committed the thoughtless deed.

Thank you, Lord, that there is a place of refuge for all who come with earnest faith. Thank you for the sanctuary provided at the foot of the Savior's Cross. His death cancels all sin for all time for all believing hearts. Undo in Your mercy all the evil which I have caused, known or not. Then let mercy received become mercy given. Let me go on, shielded by Your merciful pardon, to provide for others a sanctuary of your love.

In the name of Him who offers to all humankind the sanctuary of His redeeming love. Amen.