Psalm 61:3

Psalm 6:3

My strong tower

The synonyms keep coming! In the previous verse the Lord God is a cliff, now He is a shelter or refuge and a strong tower. Mankind has always needed protection, sadly most have relied upon themselves to design and build safe places. It was no different in David’s day as impregnable fortifications were built, cities were constructed with thick outer walls, towers were erected like castle keeps, and battlements were raised to keep enemies out. People always feel safer if they have walls around them and there is some kind of defence against the foe. We all feel better when the key is locked in the door or the security cameras are turned on or the safety catch is engaged. Security devices are used in thousands of different ways so that we can all feel that we are protected and guarded against any threat, from a petty thief to intrusion into our computerised devices. National security is a big deal and armies, navies and air forces are the equivalent of the strong towers and forces of ancient peoples. 

It is against such a backdrop that we now ask ourselves the question, “How can the Lord God be my refuge and my strong tower?” Well, whilst there is no doubt that our God protects us in physical, tangible ways we also need to remember that the enemy is spiritual and that we are completely dependent on “outside” help to guard us against his devious and insidious schemes. No amount of will power or good intentions can keep him out, we need the power and authority of the Lord’s Name, His Word and His Spirit; we need that spiritual armour in Ephesians 6 if we are ever going to stand firm. And He will provide, He is a refuge, He is a strong tower, and we will be safe. Hallelujah!

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