As I continue highlighting some of the names of God, one that is meaningful to me is God is My Fortress.
Why is this name of God an important one?
Let’s examine the name and find out.
Years ago, my husband and I had the privilege of traveling to Switzerland. Most of our time was spent in the quaint town of Lucerne. One of my most vivid memories from there was a bridge that overlooked the Swiss Alps. While we were there, we toured various scenic places. One of our first points of interest was a tall castle. The castle wasn’t ornate in any way, but it was just a large stone vertical structure. I don’t remember the name. What I recall about this castle was not its history or its beauty. What stood out to me was its stability. It was like a tall, narrow spike that stretched to the sky, built back in the 1800s. There was a spiral staircase that coiled around all the way to the top. I specifically recall this section of the castle as I met someone from my home state of GA and even my home county as we walked/talked to the top. My husband teases me constantly that we can’t go somewhere without me running into someone I know. But I digress. That is NOT the point of my story.
Other than meeting an acquaintance in a distant land, what stands out in my mind from this castle that we visited some 35+ years ago was what a strong, well-built and safe structure it was. I couldn’t even imagine an enemy attacking this castle and being successful in destroying it. It seemed extremely stable, secure and indestructible.
In reality, I know it could’ve been easily destroyed.
But I remember just being stunned that something could’ve been designed and built during that time period to withstand wind, other violent weather or enemies from all around or even a surprise attack. This castle seemed impregnable.
How does this relate to God being our fortress?
According to Webster’s dictionary, a fortress is a fortified place of safety, a stronghold or citadel.
One of the Bible verses that comes to mind is Psalm 62:5-8 “Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress; I will not be shaken. “
This verse from the Psalmist, David, reminds us that God Himself is our fortress. Unlike that castle that seemed to be impenetrable, God is a TRUE fortress that protects, defends and perfectly provides a place of safety and refuge. He doesn’t change His mind about us; His character is such that His promises are true. And He provides a firm foundation that will last throughout eternity. As scripture reminds, our foundation is eternal and firm; it is the opposite of sinking sand.
Why is that important? Why does this matter?
I don’t know about you, but when difficult or unexpected circumstances hit, I NEED a place of refuge…a place that brings me comfort and security. It doesn’t mean the circumstances change or that He wipes them away. But He stabilizes me; He provides security and a place of safety that doesn’t move, shift or shake.
Just within my circle of family and friends, I know so many who have gone through much in the last few months or years. Here’s just a few:
Diagnosis of brain cancer…not being able to talk well afterwards; mobility issues and a host of other side effects
One who committed suicide due to mental illness. The family is devastated.
A child taken to heaven by cancer at the age of 3.
Seizures that began in an adolescent of 13…no epilepsy. Doctors are stumped as to why.
A wonderful godly couple has a baby that’s stillborn.
And the list is endless.
I just mentioned a few of these scenarios, but I could type out an entire page full. Hopefully, you get my point.
What happens when life throws you a curveball like this? When your world is turned upside down? Where do you turn?
Even without some of these MAJOR trials, just the everyday stresses of life can weigh one down.
I’ve experienced some curve balls in my life, and I can honestly say the first place I turned was to God.
Why? Because He tells me to do so as His child. And because He is faithful! I KNOW I can depend on Him.
He won’t reject me; He won’t abandon me; He will listen and let me vent.
Even more than that, He will give PEACE even in the midst of THE most difficult circumstances!
He is a true fortress, even stronger and more secure than the Switzerland castle. He won’t move, shake or collapse.
Just as that castle gave me the feeling of security (even if it was false security), God as my fortress provides REAL and LASTING security. He won’t let me go. He is reliable and faithful, in a way that no human being will ever be.
Do you remember when you were a small toddler or child? If you got afraid or uneasy, you might wrap your arms around your mom’s legs and hide behind her or cling to her. Why does a kid do that? Because momma is their security; momma is their safe place. She will protect; she can be trusted. She is safe, reliable and has the child’s best interest at heart.
How much more will our perfect, sovereign, divine, eternal, omnipotent and omniscient God be a fortress for us?
God is our safe place; He has proven He can be trusted time and again. His Word proves that, but He proved that by making a way to get back into a right relationship with Him. He gave up His precious son for you and me. He knew Jesus would have to suffer; He knew Jesus would die an excruciating death in paying for your sins and mine. And yet, He still sent Him. He did that out of love for you and me.
People today are in chaos, tossed to and fro. Material possessions don’t offer security.
Anxiety and depression are on the rise in youth, some as young as age 10.
Violence is escalating in our world.
When life is in turmoil, a solid foundation that doesn’t crumble, move or shake provides a firm footing and REAL peace. Only God, through His Son, Jesus offers that strong fortress. It’s a comfort and security even more stable and comforting than a mother’s leg. It’s perfect, holy and sure. And even more than the strongest castle, God provides a fortress that can’t be penetrated or even rocked. How amazing is that?
What are you clinging to? Is He your fortress?
Laura's Lines 