But the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD. He is their stronghold in the time of trouble.
–Psalm 37:39
During the Middle Ages in Europe, castles were the stronghold of a kingdom.
There the lord resided, his knights trained, and his weapons were stored. If an enemy were to invade the land, the peasants could depend on their lord — and all the might within his stronghold — to come to their defense.
But really, the lords of five hundred years ago were not so interested in caring for their vassals. In fact, they often burdened them with taxes so high that peasants struggled to make the leftovers adequate for their families. Lords often loved their land and their power far more than their people.
We have a Lord too. We manage His land. In a way, we pay Him taxes. When troubles invade, He knows. We don’t have to fight off enemies alone; our Lord has miracles, might, and an army of angels at His command. Truly, He is a greater stronghold than any government, any country, any human leader. And He doesn’t just rescue us because of what He can gather from us. He actually does it because He loves us.
We can serve Him wholeheartedly. We have a truly good Lord.
Prayer
Loving God, Help me to serve You with my whole heart. May others see the grace of Christ in my life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Reflection
For what trouble in my life am I needing God’s stronghold?