Proverbs 18:10, New Living Translation

“The name of the LORD is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe.”

Human nature seems to catch up with us at times. We know God’s word, but there are times when fear creeps in. This is the importance of keeping, cherishing God’s word in our heart, and using our mouth to speak and declare the word of God. I cannot stress the importance of being in God’s word, knowing His word, and being in relationship with Him enough.

Proverbs 18:10 (NLT) says, “The name of the LORD is a strong fortress; the godly run to him, and are safe.”

We play an active role in finding refuge in the Lord. We cannot be on the fence. It’s either all or nothing!

I am reminded of the parable of the farmer. Matthew 13:19-23 (NLT) put it this way:

“The seed that fell on the footpath, represents those who hear the message about the Kingdom and don’t understand it. Then the evil one comes and snatches away the seed that was planted in their heart. Recede on the rocky soil, represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. Since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God‘s word. The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God‘s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced. The seed that fell on the good soil represents those who truly hear, and understand God‘s word, and produce a harvest of 30, 60, or even 100 times as much as had been planted!”

So, what is the takeaway? We must seek the truth… God! We must receive Jesus! Without Jesus, as our savior in the Holy Spirit to guide us. In truth, we are lost to this world. We must keep guard, cherish the word of God, seal it in our hearts and minds, and completely trust God! When we do this proverb 18:10 is fulfilled. When we do this, the fulfillment of Jeremiah 17:7-8 (NLT) happens. “But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope in confidence. They were like trees planted along river banks, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit.”

Can you picture this tree by the riverbank? Can you see yourself being strong and deeply rooted in Jesus Christ, our foundation and first love? Are you going to let fear crumble that foundation? When fear begins to creep in, declare these truths!

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but a Power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7, NLT)

“But you belong to God, my dear children. You’ve already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.” (1 John 4:4, NLT)

Jesus knew the power of God’s word. He told the devil himself, “Get out of here, Satan,” Jesus told him…(Matthew 4:10, NLT) remember, “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and he will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God in the world.” Jesus set the perfect example! When is sick and receive Jesus, and be the example to others, who need Jesus!​