Working at a Christian camp for four summers brought me great joy and delight. I learned a lot as both a counselor and a director. My second summer was spent camping in Maine, where I hiked Mt. Katahdin seven times with different groups. The weather changed each time, from warm sunshine to rain and even snow.
The rocks and boulders posed a challenge as we climbed the mountain trail. We carefully chose our path to avoid falling into the crevices. However, during one of our more dangerous climbs, several of us huddled behind a large boulder because icy pellets were hitting us. That big rock served as our shelter and refuge during a fierce storm.
In You, O Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be ashamed.
- Psalm 71:1
The storms of life are unavoidable—they will happen to each of us. The psalmist, David, demonstrates his complete trust in God and believes the Lord is his source of protection and safety. Observe his act of faith: “I have taken refuge.” He’s not wondering whether he should run to the Lord or questioning if God will protect him. No. David recognizes the Lord is his refuge.
In Your righteousness, deliver me and rescue me. Incline Your ear to me and save me.
- Psalm 71:2
God’s righteousness is His perfect and holy nature, embodying justice, fairness, and integrity. He extends gracious acts of deliverance and rescue to the disheartened, discouraged, and brokenhearted.
The psalmist once again asks the Lord to listen to his cry—“Incline Your ear to me.” (See Psalm 40:1). He looks for God’s close attention to his need and plea for help.
Be to me a rock of refuge, to which I may continually come;
You have given the command to save me, for You are my rock and my fortress.- Psalm 71:3
God is my rock of refuge. Not only can I come to Him each day, but He invites me to do so. The Lord will provide shelter and protection. He is a mighty deliverer and saves me.
Head to Heart
I take refuge.
What physical actions can you take to practice taking refuge? Maybe you have a room or a specific space in your house where you can go. Sit down and take time to rejoice and sing to the Lord. He is your refuge and protector.
But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy, and spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may exult in you.
- Psalm 5:11
Incline Your ear to me.
This is a powerful and inspiring thought! Our Almighty God sees our suffering and pain, and He desires to comfort us. In your chosen place of refuge, read Psalm 116:2 aloud. Thank the Lord for His listening ear and loving care.
Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore, I will call upon Him as long as I live.
- Psalm 116:2
You are my rock.
When I took the photo above, I was moved by the simple beauty of the flower nestled beside the rock. It constantly reminds me that the Lord is my rock of refuge. Practice coming to Him every day and remember—He is my rock.
The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
- Psalm 18:2
DGTM RESOURCE: Your Personal Decision to Walk with God
© 2025 Discover God's Truth Ministries