Eternal Perspectives: Where Do You Run in Times of Trouble?
I admit that sometimes I use my own methods for answers, instead of asking the Lord what He wants me to do. How is it with you? Our goal should be to ask Him, listen, then obey Him. He always has the best answers.
ETERNAL PERSPECTIVES by Sally Bair
Where to run in times of trouble
Some days I had to carry my young pup, Lyddie, home when we walked the trail because of her fear of strange noises and sudden movements. The flush of a grouse from a nearby shrub or the ear-splitting screech of a hawk sent her stumbling over her clumsy legs as she raced toward the haven of my arms.
Even when she grew to her full maturity of 70 pounds, Lyddie often sought the security of my closeness. Someone told me that taking my dog along in bear country, which is almost everywhere in our Northwoods, would invite trouble. If a dog barked at or chased a bear, the bear might turn around and chase the dog right back to me. Not exactly the kind of advice I wanted to hear, knowing my pup’s habit of running to me at the first sign of trouble.
We all need a place to run to when we see trouble. In nature, that might be behind or up the nearest tree, under the nearest fence, or into the closest building. The best place to run to, however, is God’s name.
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” (Proverbs 18:10) For those who believe in Jesus Christ, have accepted His forgiveness of their sins, and vow to obey His Word, the Lord’s name represents His person, authority, and character. We have full access to the benefits His name offers.
“There is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12) Scripture also tells us to honor His name, ask anything in His name, believe in His name, and help others in His name. The power in the name of Jesus is limitless. When we face trouble, all we need to do is speak His name and He will become our safety net.
Stories are told of missionaries and others being saved from an imminent attack by wild animals or evil men by calling on Jesus’ name. His name is that powerful. If we believe in the comforting and life-changing truth of God’s Word with all our heart and soul, the next time we find ourselves facing an adversary, we can run to God and call on Jesus’ name.
“Those who know Your name will put their trust in You; for You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You.” (Psalm 9:10)
Lord, thank You for the power and protection we can find in the holy name of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.