Prayer Tents Bible References - Prayer Tents

REFUGE

Shelter or relief from danger or anxiety. The OT concept owes its richness to several Hebrew words: miśgāḇ, a high rock (e.g., Isa. 33:16); măʿōnâ, a secure dwelling place (e.g., Deut. 33:27); mānôs, a place to flee to (Ps. 142:4[MT 5]); and maḥseh, a shelter (Isa. 4:6).

Zion is a refuge against invaders (Isa. 14:32); likewise righteous kings and princes can be a refuge for the people as a whole (32:2). On a personal level, the “fear of the Lord” is a source of confidence and refuge (Prov. 14:26); it is foolish to seek a “refuge of lies” (Isa. 28:15-17).

The Psalms proclaim that God himself is ultimately our only refuge (e.g., Ps. 14:6; 46:1[2]; 62:7-8[8-9]; 71:7). To affirm that “God is my refuge” is often a turning point in the prayers of the Psalms, moving the supplicant into confidence and praise (e.g., Ps. 18:2, 30[3, 31]; 34:8, 22[9, 23]) and a life of positive testimony to the power of God (71:7; 73:28).

Surprisingly perhaps, refuge is not as prominent in the NT. Peace and restoration are certainly a part of the gospel message (Luke 12:32), but the emphasis tends to be placed on the active witness and ministry that arises from it. Jesus offers rest (Matt. 11:28-30) not as a hiding place but as a yoke. The “refuge” of Christians is in the hope of the eschatological triumph of God in Christ (Heb. 6:18).

David A. Dorman

Prayer Tents Bible References - Prayer Tents

REFUGE

Eerdmans Dictionary of the Bible (2000)