When We Want to Run

In the LORD I take refuge; How can you say to my soul, "Flee as a bird to your mountain.“ Psalm 11:1 (New American Standard Bible)

Do you ever wish you could go somewhere for a number of years and come back with evident changes in your life? Do you ever wish that the people who know you best could eventually see development that seems so slow in coming? Do you ever wish the person you have become would become someone different? Do you ever just not like who you are and what you are? If so, know that you are not alone. Although few will admit it, many feel the same way.


Have you ever shared with another person your feelings of inadequacy, depression, or sadness? Is there at least one person in your life who knows how much you struggle to walk in peace, joy, and love? If so, does your trust remain in tact that they have not changed their opinion of you, lost respect for you, or are on the verge of giving up on you and walking away? Do you wrestle with thoughts that had you not shared so much maybe things would be different? Do you entertain thoughts of backing away before abandonment is forthcoming?

Escape seems to be the “answer” that some of us feel would put us in a safe place. Like maybe if we just backed away from the places where we experience internal darkness and foreboding thoughts, we somehow believe things would begin to change for us. We can’t imagine the possibility that things could be any different without running away. David wasted no time in letting us know that doesn’t work. Refuge and safety is not a place you escape to. It is a Person you hide in. That Person is Jesus Christ and He longs to be your place of refuge. He longs to be my place of refuge as well. So how do we make Him that place and person for us?

Get honest with Him. Confide in Him and confess to Him all that is going on inside your heart and mind. Tell Him the things that fill you with shame as well as the things that fill you with joy. Let Him know your fears, disappointments, and aches, as well as your treasures, dreams, and laughter. He is not looking for you to stand in His presence only when a smile is on your face. He wants realness, authenticity, and intimacy with Him. Then listen as He tells you the things your soul longs to hear.

Father, help me to escape into You. Running is not the answer unless it is into Your arms. Amen.

You Are My Hiding Place - Selah
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfUOLfBFFaU&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.