A Safe Place

God is our refuge and strength,

An ever-present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way

And the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,

Though its waters roar and foam

And the mountains quake with their surging…

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God.”

Psalm 46:1-3, 10 (NIV)

            My son, Benjamin, has a ‘safe place,’ both at home and at school, where he can find respite when life gets a little too overwhelming. We’ve attempted to provide him with a place where sensory input is reduced and he is able to decompress. Because of his autism, these ‘safe places’ are necessary for him to be able to survive in a world full of stimulations, perceived threats and rational or irrational fears. In these safe places he can relax, renew and refresh both his mind and his body.

            I don't know about you, but I sure could use a safe place right about now; a place where I can shut out a crazy world and find rest for my weary soul. God offers a refuge, a place of safety, where we can find peace and hope in a dark world. Though the nations be in turmoil, though our very lives be thrust into confusion, we can always find comfort in God’s loving arms. In His presence we find rest, renewal and refreshment.

            God says, “Be still and know that I am God.” In the midst of the storms that have torn through our nation, God remains in control. None of the ghastly events of the past months have caught Him off guard. He knows. He sees. And He cares.

            Need a safe place? The only refuge that offers true peace and comfort is Jesus-Christ. Come to Him, surrender your worries, your heartache, your fears and allow God to be God. He will always take care of His loved ones, even if He has to reach down and scoop you into His loving arms.