8-15-07 Isaiah 25:4

Isaiah 25:4 (NAS)
For Thou hast been a defense for the helpless, A defense for the needy in his distress, A refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat; For the breath of the ruthless Is like a rain storm against a wall.

Isaiah 25:4 (NRSV)
For you have been a refuge to the poor, a refuge to the needy in their distress, a shelter from the rainstorm and a shade from the heat. When the blast of the ruthless was like a winter rainstorm,

Sometimes you may feel weak and poor. You may be languishing and in distress, feeling that you have been brought low. Perhaps you have been subject to oppression or abuse and you need help and deliverance from trouble. Where should you go? What should you do?

Turn to God, for Adonai, the Lord your God, is a place of safety and protection for you. He is your refuge, a stronghold that cannot be breached by your enemies. He is your strength, causing you to prevail.

You may find yourself in narrow and tight straits where you are being squeezed by the enemy. You may feel bound or besieged. However, do not give in to distress. Jehovah is your shelter, where you will find hope. When you are in any storm or dangerous situation, you can trust and put your confidence in Him. No downpour or flood will be able to sweep you away.

You may be in a place of parching heat and drought. You may feel desolate and dry. All around you there may be waste and ruin and you believe you are being held by the enemies' swords. At those times, God is your shadow and shade of protection. Though your enemies may be ruthless, striking terror in your heart, they are not mightier than the Lord your God. He is your wall of safety. Though they continuously beat against that wall, they will not break through to take you captive. You are eternally sheltered in Jehovah.