God's child has 'cutting edge'

This world is a dangerous place. Hurricanes, floods, mudslides, a tsunami, wildfires, earthquakes, tornadoes and other natural catastrophes threaten our physical existence. Put that with accidents, terrorists, “wars and rumors of wars,” (Matthew 24:6) a multiple of diseases and you might get depressed.

Throughout history mankind has struggled for survival against unspeakable odds, with one exception. Bible history reveals the “safe place” for those who loved God and followed through in obedience. Yes, they had hard times but undaunted faith led them to overcoming victories.

The parting of the Red Sea enabled Moses to lead the Israelites out of bondage. Elijah raised the widow’s son. Elisha purified the spring at Jericho. The Lord was the fourth man in the fiery furnace of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. God sent an angel to shut the mouths of lions for Daniel in the lions’ den. All of these biblical characters and many more had a “safe place.”

Several years ago someone sent me a New Century Version Bible through the mail. I don’t know who sent me this wonderful blessing. Thank you, whoever you are. The 91st Psalm in this version immediately grabbed my attention. I love it: “You will not fear any danger by night or an arrow during the day. You will not be afraid of diseases that come in the dark or sickness that strikes at noon. At your side one thousand people may die, or even ten thousand right beside you, but you will not be hurt. (Verses 5-7)

God’s child has the “cutting edge,” the advantage and the comfort of knowing God will never leave his children: “Their children shall inherit the land; all who love his name shall live there safely” (Psalm 69:36 TLB).

The extent of God’s love fills the hungry heart that yearns for him: “You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breathe. Every day was recorded in your Book! How precious it is, Lord, to realize that you are thinking about me constantly! I can’t even count how many times a day your thoughts turn towards me. And when I waken in the morning, you are still thinking of me!” (Psalm 139:16-18 TLB)

What a safe place to be…in the arms of God. Knowing Jesus makes our final destination secure. I read a story about a godly man who was held up by a robber. The thief demanded his wallet or his life. The godly man enthusiastically replied: “HOW DARE YOU THREATEN ME WITH HEAVEN!”

Yes, life brings problems but we are anchored to a “Problem Solver.” “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all” (Psalm 34:19). In other words, we are in the safe places. We have the blessed hope of the ages because “Greater is he that is in us than he that is in the world.” (1 John 4:4).

We abide in the “secret place of the most High under the “Shadow of the Almighty” and dwell in his safe place. (Psalm 91)

Whenever I see crosses reflecting in the sunlight I am once again reminded of God’s sacrifice for our “safe place.”

When you are discouraged

And you feel all alone,

Go to God’s “safe place.”

He has one for your own.

Portales resident Joan Clayton is a retired teacher and published author. Her e-mail address is: [email protected]