Hello Beloved,

We have been studying the “epithets” for God. As a reminder, the Oxford English Dictionary defines an epithet as “an adjective or phrase expressing a characteristic quality or attribute of the person or thing mentioned.” Last month, we considered the epithet of God as “Savior or Salvation.” This month, we will consider the epithet of God as “Fortress, Refuge, and Stronghold.”

A fortress (mesuda) is a defensive structure that encompasses walls, citadels, and possibly moats or towers. If you were to live in the time of David, a fortress would be a prime source of security from enemy forces. Often, cities would choose sites that were naturally favorable to fortresses, like the top of a mountainous terrain or an ample water supply. In ancient times, fortifications were made from debris, rubble, beaten earth, and just about anything that would provide protection. Many times, the Psalmist would equate trust in God with that of a fortress. David states, “The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer . . .” Psalm 18:2 (ESV). The idea of a fortress is close to the concept of refuge (maoz). In Psalm 31, David claims in language that is reminiscent of Christ’s suffering, “In you, O LORD, do I take refuge; let me never be put to shame; in your righteousness deliver me! Incline your ear to me; rescue me speedily! Be a rock of refuge for me, a strong fortress to save me! For you are my rock and my fortress; and for your name’s sake you lead me and guide me;” Psalm 31:1-3 (ESV). Further, the idea of “stronghold” (misgabbi) is often used synonymously with the concepts of fortress and refuge, but it specifically describes a strongly fortified defensive or military structure (Logos Bible Lexicon). Consider David’s use of these concepts in Psalm 62, “For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress (misgabbi); I shall not be greatly shaken” Psalm 62:1-2 (ESV). Finally, consider David’s cry in Psalm 9:9-10, “The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you” Psalm 9:9-10 (ESV).

I am currently preparing for this Sunday’s sermon on the Immanuel prophecy of Isaiah 7:14. By the time you read this article, you will have heard the sermon. Consider David’s descendant, Ahaz, in relation to this principle. Ahaz was afraid of the militaristic alliance between Israel and Syria. He should have found his security in God, for it was God who desired to be Ahaz’ fortress, stronghold, and refuge. God even provided an opportunity for Ahaz to request a sign to strengthen His faith. Instead, however, Ahaz chose to find his security in the political alliance between Judah and Assyria. Such unbelief cost Ahaz and God’s people, Judah, dearly.

Is God your source of security and refuge? Do you trust Him as your fortress when the boss wants you to do something unethical? Do you find refuge in Him when false rumors are being spread about your character? Do you seek Him as your stronghold when you lost your job and you do not know from where the next paycheck is coming? These are times when God yearns to be our stronghold, our fortress, and our refuge. I leave you with the first stanza of what might be the most popular hymn of the Reformer, Martin Luther, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.”

A mighty fortress is our God,
A bulwark never failing;
Our helper he, amid the flood
Of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe
Does seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great,
And armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.

Until next time this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”