Picture yourself outside in the midst of a fierce storm—thunder booming, lightning flashing across the sky, winds roaring, and rain pouring down. You're drenched, cold, and seeking refuge. What's your first instinct?

Most likely, you'd think, "I need to find shelter!" But would you seek refuge in a flimsy tent? Certainly not. Instead, you'd look for a solid, fortified structure—something like a strong, stone fortress. Within those walls, you'd feel secure, protected from the driving rain, the forceful winds, and the intimidating sounds of thunder. Even the flashes of lightning would seem less threatening.

Proverbs 18:10 tells us, "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."

Just as a sturdy fortress shields you from a storm's fury, God's name offers protection to those who place their trust in Him through Jesus. This doesn’t mean that believers will never face hardship or pain. Rather, it assures us that no harm will last forever, and nothing can permanently steal away the joy that God has promised to His people.

When you rush inside from a storm, you’re still soaked, and the storm continues to rage outside. Similarly, when you turn to God in the midst of life's difficulties, those challenges might not disappear immediately—but with God by your side, they become more bearable. He strengthens His children, helping them face hardships with resilience. Because He understands our innermost struggles, we find comfort in His presence. His strength and goodness give us the assurance that we can place our trust in Him.

However, just as a fortress offers no protection if you don’t take refuge within it, God’s help and protection require us to actively seek Him out. If we remain outside, exposed to the storm, we can’t benefit from the safety and comfort He offers. To experience God’s peace and strength, we must intentionally turn to Him.

How does this look in practice?

Imagine you’re disappointed because the rain has canceled your plans for the day. Instead of letting that sadness fester, turn to God in prayer: “El Roi, You are the God who sees everything. You see this rain and my disappointment. Thank You for understanding my feelings. Adonai, You are the Lord of my life. Whatever You allow to happen is for a good purpose. Help me to trust You through this.”

When you’re struggling with a tough challenge, like a complicated project at work or a personal issue that seems overwhelming, turn to El Shaddai—God Almighty. Pray, “Lord, You are El Shaddai, the Almighty One. Nothing is too difficult for You. You have all wisdom and understanding. Help me navigate this problem. Strengthen me to work diligently and maintain a positive outlook.”

If you’re feeling in an unsettling environment or awaiting medical tests, remember that Jehovah-Shammah—the Lord is There—is with you. Pray, “Lord, You are Jehovah-Shammah, the One who is always present. I know You are here with me right now. Please calm my fears and help me to trust in Your constant presence.”

Change can be challenging, whether it’s a new job, a move to a different city, or shifts in personal relationships. But in a world of constant change, Yahweh remains unchanging. He is our Strong Tower. Pray, “Yahweh, everything around me is changing, but You remain the same. You are forever strong, loving, and good. You are my unshakable refuge. Make me strong in the midst of these changes, just as You are.”

When you’re stuck and can’t seem to find a solution, turn to Elohim, the Strong Creator. He’s the one who made everything and never runs out of ideas. When you’re uncertain about a decision or the right path to take, seek guidance from Jehovah-El Emeth, the LORD God of Truth, to help you discern what is right. No matter the challenge, you can always turn to God, your unshakable refuge.

Proverbs 18:10 reminds us, "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."

But what does it mean to be “righteous”? To be righteous means to be in right standing before God, with your sins forgiven. The only way to be truly righteous is by trusting in what Jesus did on the cross. He took on the sins of those who believe in Him, making them righteous in the eyes of God.

This means that only those who trust in Jesus—who love Him and believe that He has paid the price for their sins—can find true refuge in God. He is a Strong Tower for His children, offering them safety and protection. Are you one of His children? Do you desire to know the God who is a refuge and strength for those who belong to Him?