Security

David was a mighty warrior who conquered the enemies of Israel. He was a great king who led Israel into peace and security. So it is with Jesus, the Son of David. Born of human lineage, Jesus was fully man and fully God.

Strong fortified walls from fifteen to twenty-five feet thick and twenty feet high surrounded ancient cities. Built into these walls were towers at each corner and at other places in the wall where an enemy might attack. Each tower had its own entrance, a staircase to the top, and a stash of weapons. Towers were the place to run to when the enemy was attacking. These towers were called migdal-oz in Hebrew. The same word is also translated as “stronghold.”

Fortresses were not built in the middle of the plains. Rather, they were built in high places, on top of or into the side of a mountain. So, with that background, check out today’s passage.

We all need a place of refuge. Life hits us hard and uproots what we thought was secure. Our strength is broken down. If we are fortunate, we huddle with others, but even then, no person can save us from the storm. Only One can.

Is being jealous ever a good thing? Doesn’t jealousy lead to envy? Isn’t it wrong to want what others have? When someone demonstrates jealousy in a relationship, don’t we see it as a bad thing? So why does God say that he is a jealous God?

What does your relationship with God depend on? Things that you do? Things that you don’t do? Can you lose your relationship with God? Can you have a relationship with God and then do something that causes God to kick you out of his family?

Today’s devotional is in memory of Tunch Ilkin. Tunch has been with the Lord for almost two years, and—like many who are reading or listening to this devo—I still miss him dearly. Tunch loved Jesus. He loved his family. And he loved to minister to men. Tunch was one of a kind, and he left a lasting impact.

The true believer has eternal security. No one can snatch us out of God’s hand (John 10:27-30). Nothing can separate us from his love (Romans 8:38-39). Our imperishable inheritance is kept in heaven for us “who through faith are shielded by God’s power” (1 Peter 1:3-5 NIV). But the assurance of our salvation does not allow us to live a sloppy spiritual life.

Jesus is our great Hope. That is the Christmas story in a nutshell. In Jesus, we have significance, security, acceptance, and forgiveness. In Jesus, we are empowered by his Spirit to show the world how the glory of the Lord shines through our lives.