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“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:1-2 (NIV)
The media is filled with headlines proclaiming a call for action against escalating incidents of gun violence. Tragically, deadly shootings have taken place in what most consider to be safe environments: a Virginia college campus, an Arizona political rally, a Colorado movie theater, and a Connecticut elementary school. This Memorial Day, my thoughts turned to our deployed military personnel. These courageous men and women leave the safety of homeland bases for tours of duty in hostile and dangerous locations.
Make no mistake; there is no false pretense that these foreign posts even come close to being safe.
When deployment takes a loved one far from home, it’s nearly impossible not to worry about their health, safety, and well-being. Tours that allow only limited communication are especially tough to endure. Although the support of family and friends can provide tremendous comfort, there’s someone else you can turn to for calming reassurance; the outstretched hand of Our Father. Scripture encourages us to lean on the strength of God to find refuge in His promise: “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 (NLT)
I love Sarah Young’s words in her devotional book, Jesus Calling. Young writes, “The most persistent choice you face is whether to trust Me or to worry. You will never run out of things to worry about, but you can choose to trust Me no matter what.” Deciding to turn away from worry and lean on His strength is a choice; a choice He invites us to make.
There are no guarantees in life but, no matter what, Christ offers refuge and comfort in His trusting embrace.
In honor of our service men and women, join me in prayer: Dear Lord, I place our military personnel into your capable hands. Protect them and bless them with the safety of Your fortress. Amen
