Fortress
In medieval and Biblical times a fortress was of ultimate importance in the protection of a people against the assault of invaders and enemies. A natural defensive site, like a steep hill, would be chosen. Foundations would be of stone, defensive walls would be built. Towers gave extra protection.
The Bible mentions many physical fortresses. King David, in the Old Testament, was an experienced battle leader and accustomed to capturing and building fortresses, for example in 2 Samuel 5:6-10. David is also responsible for many of the references to God being a fortress. 2 Samuel 22:2 says
"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer .
Tthere are other words associated with this image of God, particularly used in the Psalms, that emphasis God's role as a fortress - refuge, trust, rock, deliverer, stronghold. Psalm 18:2, Psalm 31:2-3, Psalm 71:3, Psalm 91:2, Psalm 144:2. God is also referred to as a strong tower in Psalm 61:3, Proverbs 18:10.
Today, we do not experience the same type of physical attack that caused the people of medieval and Biblical times to build and depend on physical fortresses for protection. But, we can relate to needing God as a fortress for us because we all need spiritual protection. This is not some supernatural or mythical Narnia-type battle but protection in our day to day life as we experience living in a world that holds both good and evil; the experiences of pain, sadness, arguments, unhappiness, loneliness and illness. These are not part of God's perfectly planned world but part of a world that contains sin. These experiences can make us feel pursued, like giving up or surrendering or even struggling to live. We need somewhere to run, to feel safe and secure. That place is God. We can find refuge in Him our fortress, our rock, our deliverer, our strong tower.
Within physical fortresses next in importance to the defenses was a supply of water. This enabled people hiding within the fortress to withstand long sieges. Without water they would die or be forced to surrender.
Not only does God offer us defense and a tower to hide in, but He is our supply of water - living water. John 4:10-14 CEV says 'Jesus answered, "You don't know what God wants to give you, and you don't know who is asking you for a drink. If you did, you would ask me for the water that gives life."
"Sir," the woman said, "you don't even have a bucket, and the well is deep. Where are you going to get this life-giving water? Our ancestor Jacob dug this well for us, and his family and animals got water from it. Are you greater than Jacob?"
Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will get thirsty again. But no one who drinks the water I give will ever be thirsty again. The water I give is like a flowing fountain that gives eternal life." '
You may be under siege for a long time - the pain, sadness, unhappiness or loneliness may be long but we have a means by which to live and survive.
Remember to run and hide in God your defender and drink His living water so that you can outlive the siege.
Spend a few moments telling God that from this moment you are trusting in His ability and strength to defend you and keep you.
"O LORD, I have come to you for protection; don't let me be put to shame. Rescue me, for you always do what is right.
Bend down and listen to me; rescue me quickly. Be for me a great rock of safety, a fortress where my enemies cannot reach me.
You are my rock and my fortress. For the honor of your name, lead me out of this peril."
Posted on Tue, 24 Jan 2006 21:08 by rbritton (947 day(s) old)
