Delighting in God’s Presence

05/23/24 – 05/31/24

Dwell in His Fortress

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  05/26/24

To delight in the presence of God means that we have confidence in Him as our refuge, our Redeemer who defeated the powers of sin and darkness at the cross.

The Bible declares that God is our refuge, our fortress, our rock—an image of security and safety (see 1 Samuel 2:2; Psalm 18:2; 42:9). But the only way to enter the protection of this invincible fortress is by knowing and resting in the Truth of who God is. Only when we have grasped the freedom that Christ secured for us on the cross can we have unshakable confidence in Jehovah-Nissi, “God our banner.” Only when God’s Word finds a home in our heart can we have true peace.

It is not enough to read the Bible. We must “[l]et the message of Christ dwell among [us] richly” (Colossians 3:16). That means we must allow the deep Truths about God revealed in Scripture—His character and promises for us—to penetrate our heart, deepen our faith, strengthen our character, and lead us in the way of righteousness through His Spirit. Only the Word of God can sustain us under the pressures of life and protect us from the enemy. Only the Word of God can give us hope, joy, and victory for eternity.

Are you looking for a refuge from the stresses and storms of life? Look to God’s Word and dwell on His faithfulness. Reflect on His character and run to the one who is your safe haven.

Prayer: Lord, You are my safe haven. I am confident in Your strength alone. You are my fortress and my salvation forever. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“But the LORD has become my fortress, and my God the rock in whom I take refuge” (Psalm 94:22).