For You have been a shelter for me, a strong tower from the enemy.
Psalm 61:3
Recommended Reading: 2 Samuel 22:2-3
In ancient walled cities a tower was often erected at a corner of the walls or over a city gate. It served as a refuge—a place from which to defend the city from attacks and to protect inhabitants. (See Judges 9:50-55.) A strong tower became a metaphor for God as a place of refuge and protection: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10).
Today, our cities don’t have walls or towers. Our enemies are spiritual and circumstantial more than physical. So where do we run when we feel we are under attack or experiencing trouble? We do spiritually what people did physically in the Old Testament—we flee to our spiritual tower which is God Himself. In due course, the Israelites began to refer to God as their “strong tower” and “fortress.” His covenant promises and love were what they depended on for protection and comfort. The same is true for us today.
The strength and protection of God are found in His promises to us. Embrace God and His Word; put your faith in Him by trusting His promises.
A sovereign Protector I have, unseen, yet forever at hand.
Augustus M. Toplady