Where do you run to find safety or security when you need it?

I recently watched a TV program titled “Mr. Monk and the Panic Room” during which the celebrated detective is called on to investigate a murder that occurred in a panic room. This room was in the home of a wealthy record producer who was paranoid. So, he constructed an impenetrable room in his home in the event of some threat or danger. With 12-inch-thick reinforced concrete walls, ventilation system, and several weeks’ supply of water and food, the room provided him a place of safety and security. The mystery was how this man could have been murdered in such seclusion. Not to worry. He figured it out.

Not everyone can afford to construct a panic room, but each of us does have safe places to which we retreat when our security is threatened. Children have “security blankets” or stuffed animals. Adults choose a wide range of coping mechanisms to manage perceived threats. You know what I’m talking about: spouse, family, friends, work, food, sex, drink, entertainment, fantasy, drugs… Take a minute and identify 2 or 3 of yours.

A weary and ancient traveler crested a mountain top and observed a vast city sprawled before him. What struck him most was that the city of Jerusalem (Mount Zion) was surrounded by slightly taller mountains! The city appeared to be nestled among the mountains and protected from external danger.

He was so impressed that he wrote a song preserved for us as Psalm 125

“A SONG OF ASCENTS.
Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved but abides forever. As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people, from this time forth and forevermore.
For the scepter of wickedness shall not rest on the land allotted to the righteous, lest the righteous stretch out their hands to do wrong.
Do good, O LORD, to those who are good, and to those who are upright in their hearts! But those who turn aside to their crooked ways the LORD will lead away with evildoers!
Peace be upon Israel!”

A couple of things stand out to me.
1. The LORD grants peace to his people.

This song provides us with a word picture of the security of God’s people – the believing community. The protection and safety, they find is spelled S-H-A-L-O-M and is regularly translated peace. Shalom includes much more than the absence of war or conflict; it conveys the idea of well-being, satisfaction, safety, security, or complete contentment.

Shalom does suggest the absence of threats, hostility, or danger. I wonder if you notice a rather strange thing. When I think of security and safety, I usually have myself or my family in view. The songwriter, however, strikes a different note. He sees peace as a gift of the LORD to his people. This is significant.

1st, peace is a gift, not an entitlement. Somehow, I feel that I should be immune to turmoil, hostility, and rebellion against God. I mean, I can see why others should experience these, but me – not so much! Thank God that he gives me far less than I deserve. I should not be surprised if I observe anger, rebellion, arrogance, selfishness, and lawlessness all around me. Thank God there is not more!

2nd, I am reminded that “It is not all about me!” Yes, God is indeed very concerned about me and each one of his people. But it remains true that he loves us as his people. Many of the precious promises found in Scripture are made in the plural. That is, they are made to his people. This is a very important point. I often need to be reminded that God’s concern is for his people – every one of us. The LORD protects his people!

3rd, the New Testament clarifies this shalom or peace is available to all but is given only to those who ask for it. Notice that it is “those who trust the LORD” who receive such peace. This is the essence of our Christian faith and the heart of our relationship with God. God calls his people to trust him. We trust him for the forgiveness of many sins our sins. We trust him as he directs our lives through this troubled world. We trust him for our daily bread. We trust him for the future of ourselves and our family. We trust him to renew the world and bring the fullness of his kingdom to earth. We trust him… We trust him.

2. Security is guaranteed to those who trust the LORD.

The image of a mountain signifies strength and stability. How much more does a range of mountains suggest permanence! Our song describes the city of Jerusalem also known as Mount Zion in the Bible, as snuggled in a range of mountains – great security! Moreover, Scripture repeatedly describes Mount Zion as God’s Old Testament and New Testament people who are secure because of God’s plans and promises. God has plans for his people, which cannot be frustrated or thwarted. What he plans comes to pass. No one or no thing can ultimately interfere. He is and will be undefeated!

So, when I get bad news, read the news, or feel threatened, perhaps even overwhelmed, I know it is time to trust in the LORD. I place my confidence and hope in him and his secure promises. I am certain that the LORD, who is completely independent – not reliant on anyone or anything is my security. He places his benediction on me and everyone who trusts in him. God’s people are safe from every threat.
So, for me and I hope for you: trust the LORD. He is our safe place! We don’t need a panic room – we need the LORD!