STRONGHOLDS
Today's reading: 1 Samuel 22-24

"David then went to live in the strongholds of En-gedi." 1 Samuel 23:29 NLT

Stronghold-a fortified place; a place of security or survival; a safe retreat; castle; fort; a place of difficult access.

When David chose to live in the wilderness of En-gedi, he was not choosing to live in the lap of luxury.

I've been there. I've seen it with my own eyes. I've walked the mountain goat-trails. I've seen the starkness of it. I've experienced the remoteness of it. I've viewed the craggy rock formations. I've trekked to the stream and waterfall. I've seen the wildlife in that geographical stronghold.

And this morning as I re-live my day at En-gedi and re-read this portion of Scripture, I'm reminded...

When I run to God as my stronghold, I don't need to expect it to be luxurious and comfortable.

When I seek His protection, I don't need to believe it's going to take all the pain and hurts away.

When I go to Him for comfort, I don't need to think I will be catered to, coddled or as my Grandma used to say, 'made over'.

I'll be camping out.

I'll be pitching a tent.

I'll be making a tough journey to just be in His presence.

I'll be putting aside the conveniences of life.

I'll quite possibly break a sweat just getting to Him.

I'll be laying my head on stones as I rest safely in His fortress.

I'll be safe...not necessarily comfortable, but safe in His strongholds.