Scripture
Psalms 9:9,10
The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.
Devotion
The Greek word for stronghold, means a fortress. A fortress is defined as a large fortified structure for the purpose of refuge. Often in ancient times it surrounded a town. It is comforting to know that I am surrounded with God's protection because I know him and seek him.
As I am thinking about the two words strong and hold, I think of how an anchor holds a ship in place when the winds and waves are toiling. It is the strong hold of the anchor that protects the ship from being carried away and damaged on the rocky shores. God's anchor is strong enough to hold our ships in place during life's storms. I also am reminded of the verse which says that no one can snatch us from God's hands; he has a “stronghold” on our lives. Whenever troubling things come our way, we just trust and know that the Lord is our stronghold (or, “fortress”) and he has a stronghold on our lives.
