The word refuge can also be translated as "mansion" or "abiding place," which paints a beautiful picture—God as our dwelling, our home. This metaphor is both full and sweet, for no matter how humble, our home is dear to us. Even more so is our blessed God, in whom we live, move, and have our being. At home, we feel safe, shutting out the world and resting in quiet security. In the same way, when we abide in God, we "fear no evil." He is our shelter, our retreat, our eternal refuge.
Home is also where we rest—where we find peace after the exhaustion of the day. Likewise, when life’s battles leave us weary, we can turn to God and find true rest for our souls.
This excerpt from a devotional I read today really spoke to my heart. I have been so busy lately that I need to dwell in the security and safety of my Lord. This describes exactly what I’ve felt all year—when I sit at His feet, I experience His peace, His comfort, and His rest from the weight of the world. He is so good.
Tom left for California on October 29th for the final goodbye to the house and returned on November 8th, only to leave again for the Freedom Men’s Retreat on Friday, November 9th. I’m thankful for a quiet moment today to catch my breath, go through my emails, and spend time journaling. Honestly, I’ve been busier than I ever wanted to be, so in a way, it was a good thing Tom was gone—I wouldn’t have been home much anyway!
I am so ready to be done with my job, but one of the blessings in this transition is being able to openly share what I’m about to do. People at work seem genuinely interested and happy for me, and it’s such a gift to be able to speak about my Lord and His calling—even in the workplace.
I ordered nine used copies of Letters from a Skeptic to give as going-away gifts to the people God directs me to. Each book will include a note of encouragement and a personal prayer. I pray the Lord uses this to soften hearts and draw people closer to Him.
Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the call that God has placed on Tom and me. I keep picturing the shoreline—the one from the Gospels—where fishermen and laborers are busy with their daily work, and Jesus walks along the water’s edge, calling out, "Come, follow me!"
Before, I imagined Jesus calling only specific people, handpicking a few from the crowd. But now, I see it differently. I see Him calling everyone! And only a few actually respond.
What if that’s what’s happening now? What if God is calling many to step out in faith, to leave behind their jobs, their comfort, their “gods,” to follow Him in a deeper and more passionate way? What if Tom and I are just two among those who are answering that call?
I don’t know for sure, but I do know that I feel the Holy Spirit moving mightily. It’s the only way I’ve had the strength to take this step. Something is happening—something big. I believe He is preparing to sweep through this area, bringing His Word, His power, and His healing to those who need it.
I am humbled beyond words.
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