Keep me free from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. (Ps. 31:4)
The kitten was looking for a warm place to sleep and found that space above the transmission of a small car. Her presence unknown to the driver, she held on for dear life for over three miles. Miraculously unhurt, she was finally tempted into a humane trap with a can of mackerel. Temptation drew her to the trap set for her. I often refer to her now as my Velcro cat, because since the day I freed her from the trap, she sticks to me for safety.
When we’re going through tough times, it is easy for us to be tempted into a trap. But we don’t have to run toward temptation. The Lord promises to keep us free from traps. Instead of running toward temptation, we can run toward refuge. God is our safety. David wrote that God rescued him and is his refuge, his rock, and his fortress. He had been tempted in his life and didn’t always choose to run from temptation. But he learned to lean on God’s righteousness. David knew the direction he should run toward when times got tough.
When we’re afraid, lonely, lost, or tempted, God can keep us free from the trap. Even when we get trapped, God rescues us and promises to be our refuge. Hold on to the promise that he is your safety.
Choose to run toward God during tough times.
Priscilla Hammond is an ordained pastor and associate professor in the Benson School of Business at Southern Wesleyan University. She served as the compiling editor of This Holy Calling (WPH, 2022).
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
