SHELTER written by Vertical Worship and performed by Don Ives

The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. – Psalms 9:9

Overwhelmed. So much pain. So much suffering in this fallen world.

Did you know that God never intended it this way? But in this fallen world, the Bible says, “the whole creation has been GROANING as in pains of childbirth right up to the present time”- Romans 8:22

No doubt we have all groaned in pain. A toothache, an earache, a stubbed toe. Or something more intense, like a kidney stone. And some of us have groaned in heartache at the loss of a loved one. And when we tune in the news, we learn of the collective suffering of races, peoples, and nations. Overwhelming. Creation groaning.

So much suffering.

But did you know that sin is the root of suffering, and the root cause of a fallen world? Sin leads to consequences that cause the sinner to destroy others and eventually themselves. Jesus knew that there was only ONE who could end it. ONE perfect life. ONE without sin. There was no other way. So He chose the Cross.  “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” – John 3:16

He suffered for our sakes.

Overwhelmed. Broken. Like a puzzle with missing pieces. That was my life before Jesus. But God’s redemption, by His grace, healed the brokenness inside me.

He made me whole again.

Friend, are you overwhelmed? Give your life to Jesus. He will give you beauty for ashes and turn your graves into gardens. Jesus does not promise we can avoid all suffering… indeed, The Lord Himself suffered greatly on the Cross. But He does promise us a way through it.

For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock.  –  Psalms 27:5

Therefore let all the faithful pray to you while you may be found; surely the rising of the mighty waters will not reach them. You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. – Psalms 32:6-8

God is our protection and our strength. He always helps in times of trouble. So we will not be afraid even if the earth shakes, or the mountains fall into the sea, even if the oceans roar and foam, or the mountains shake at the raging sea. Selah There is a river that brings joy to the city of God, the holy place where God Most High lives. – Psalms 46:1-4

You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word. Away from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the commands of my God! Sustain me, my God, according to your promise, and I will live; do not let my hopes be dashed. Uphold me, and I will be delivered; I will always have regard for your decrees. – Psalms 119:114-17

You have been my refuge, a tower of strength against the enemy. I would like to be a guest in your tent forever and to take refuge under the protection of your wings. Selah O God, you have heard my vows. You have given me the inheritance that belongs to those who fear your name. – Psalms 61:3-5