Last week my family and I gathered at Ted’s Montana Grill for dinner. Gary’s brother, David, and his wife, Joanna, flew into Denver on their way to meetings in Colorado Springs, so this was a rare and special meal together. This was also Eve’s (my granddaughter) first time to this establishment.
While waiting for our food to arrive Gary took Eve to see the giant front torso and head of a bison mounted on the wall. The preserved hairy beast looked out over the restaurant. Eve observed the mighty animal with wonder and concern. Upon returning to the table, Eve nestled into my lap. She wrapped her arms around my neck, clinching with all her strength, peering up at the bison sticking out from the wall.
I noticed her tentative posture and whispered, “Eve is safe.” Gently I repeated this declaration of truth as Eve clung to me and peeked out at the bison. Within a few moments, Eve began to proclaim in her sweet toddler voice; “Eve – Safe” to which I affirmed as I rubbed her back. Eventually, her grasp around my neck began to loosen, yet throughout the remainder of the time together, she often spoke the truth: “Eve – Safe.”
Safe – protected from or not exposed to danger or risk; not likely to be harmed. A place or person offering the presence of security or protection.
Safety and security represent foundational needs for the human person. We learn early in life to identify experiences of safety. God created us with the need to live in safety. Throughout life we look for safe spaces where our needs are met and living freely excels. Likewise, we intuitively grow an awareness of what feels unsafe and unsettling; our mind, heart, and body work together to help us know spaces of safety and places of potential harm.
What are ways you notice when you feel safe? How does your body respond to potential harm and lack of safety and security?
I think of God. Is He safe? I don’t refer to safe as “easy or free of trouble,” but as “cared for and protected.” I look to God who meets the human need for security and safety. Some people describe God as not safe. Yet, as I dig into Scripture I experience the safety of God. God offers a place of safety in addition to the presence of safety.
Our triune God provides a safe place. Throughout Scripture God is described as a fortress, refuge, and stronghold (Ruth 2:12, Psalm 18:2, Proverbs 18:10, etc.). God provided a safe space for Noah and his family from the global flood. David called out to God to keep him safe (Psalm 4:8, 9:9-10, 16:1, etc). Many of the prophets declared the safety of God (Jeremiah 23:6, Ezekiel 38:14, Joel 3:16, Isaiah 27:5, Hosea 2:18, etc.).
Remind yourself aloud that God is your refuge – your safe place (Psalm 91).
God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit work together to offer the presence of safety as well. The Old Testament reveals the safety of God’s presence with numerous individuals like Moses who experienced the safe presence of God as he led Israel (Exodus 33:14) and Esther as she trusted God with the unknown (Esther).
In the New Testament, Jesus offers His presence to the hurting, ill, curious, intelligent, scared, and confused. In Jesus we recognize the gift of being safe with Him. He protected the weak, scolded the proud, and loved all. Jesus welcomed raw authenticity and guarded against pretense.
Take this challenge: read the book of Mark in one sitting. It will likely take less than an hour. Notice all the ways Jesus’ presence provided safe spaces for those He encountered.
The promise of the Holy Spirit affirms the safe presence of God as our comforter, advocate, and helper. The Spirit dwells within followers of Jesus Christ providing ultimate safety eternally. The apostle Paul testified to the safety of God through many of the letters he wrote (2 Thessalonians 3:3, 2 Timothy 1:2, 2 Timothy 4:17-18, etc.).
With the author of Hebrews, as people walking in the way of Jesus, we can declare “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (13:5). Our souls are safe with God. He provides both a safe place and His safe presence.
Reflect on the times you have clung to the Lord, feeling wonder, uncertainty, fear, and pain. Notice the kind whisper of God: “You are safe.” Remind yourself that with God you are safe. Like Eve, declare: ________(your name) – Safe.
Rest in the assurance of being safe and secure in God.
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Drips from the Word: Muse about these Bible verses. Let these truths impact your living.
2 Timothy 4:17-18 – But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Psalm 46:1 – God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Splashes from the Spigot: Drink from deep wells. Read these recommended books to fill your soul.
Melissa Rosenberg. A Fully Secured Heart. Seattle, WA. 2020.
Ignatius Brianchaninov. The Refuge: Anchoring the Soul in God. Jordanville, NY. 2019.
Sprinklings of Truth: Soak in meaningful songs. Check out these music videos to lift up your spirit.
Hillsong Worship. Never Walk Alone. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWRae_mz3ts
Victory Worship. Safe. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_r_O6COF7GI
Puddles for Prayer: Thank you for praying for upcoming travel and speaking engagements.
June 2-15 – Quarryville, PA
Black Rock Retreat – Soul care and teaching for the Black Rock Summer Staff.