OUR DAILY BREAD : TAKING REFUGE

[cimi]

December 20
Friday


TAKING REFUGE

READ:
Proverbes 18:1-10
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The name of the LORD
is a strong tower;
the righteous run to it
and are safe.
__Proverbs 18:10
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In the medieval world, farmers would care for their crops until an enemy appeared on the horizon. Then they would flee with their families to their fortified city for protection from the marauders.

The city of Carcassonne has been a refuge for generations. Built in the 5th century BC, this stone fortress has provided protectin for Romans, Gauls, Visigoths, Franks, and French. Its sprawling size and majestic watchtowers and battlements gave confidence to those hiding inside its protective walls.

As blievers, we can take refuge in the presence of the living God. The book of Proverbs tells us: "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe" (Prov. 18:10). "The name of the LORD" refers to God's character__ abounding with faithfulness, power and mercy. The term safe means "set on high out of danger."

We all face threats at times that make us want to run for cover. Some seek security in material wealth or relationships. But the Christ-follower has a more secure refuge. Because of who God is and what He can do for us, our best protection ultimately rests in Him. If you are facing a threat today, go to the Lord, who is a strong tower. you will find refuge in His care. __Dennis Fisher

In the times of greatest struggle,
When the angry billows roll,
I can always find my Savior,
Christ, the Refuge of my soul. __Woodruff
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In good times and bad, God is our safe resting place.

******************Today's Bible Reading __ Proverbs 18:1-10*********************

1 A man who isolates
himself seeks his own
disire; he rages against all
wise judgment.

2 A fool has no delight in
understanding, but in
expressing his own heart.

3 When the wicked comes,
contempt comes also; and
with dishonor comes
reproach.

4 The words of a man's
mouth are deep waters; the
wellspring of wisdom is a
flowing brook.

5 It is not good to show
partiality to the wicked, or
to overthrow the righteous
in judgment.

6 A fool's lips enter into
contention, and his mouth
calls for blows.

7 A fool's mouth is his
destruction, and his lips are
the snare of his soul.

8 The words of a
talebearer are like tasty
trifles, and they go down
into the inmost body.

9 He who is slothful in his
work is a brother to him
who is a great destroyer.

10 The name of the LORD
is a strong tower; the
righteous run to it and are
safe.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>INSIGHT<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

Proverbs 18 offers a variety of wise counsel to the believer on life's
journey. Self-isolation is a dead end (vv.1-2), and wicked choices will
ultimately earn the contempt of others (v.3). Wisdom is a wellspring
that quenches our thirst (v.4); and fair play should characterize our
lives, not partiality (v.5). Carelessness in what we say can lead to
great conflict (vv.6-7). Gossip, though tempting, causes trouble (v.8);
and lack of a work ethic can be destructive (v.9). Finally, God is the
ultimate source of security for the believer (v.10).