While vacationing in Ocean City, New Jersey, we’ve encountered hurricanes. Once a storm was moving offshore as we literally blew into town. A close call. Another time, we were ready to head off of this barrier island just as the gully washer veered off course, heading directly to where we were planning to flee to! It’s a good thing we stayed put. Once, while stopped at a red light, the wind was so fierce that even with my foot pushed as hard as I could onto the brake pedal, our Honda van kept moving through the traffic light into the cross street. Is this safe?

But where do you go when life’s vicious winds hit, as we seek some shelter in the time of storm? When you have to run for your life. Read Psalm 60, where you’ll discover what King David does–‘O God, you have rejected us, broken our defenses; you have been angry; oh, restore us. You have made the land to quake; you have torn it open; repair its breaches, for it totters. You have made your people see hard things; you have given us wine to drink that made us stagger’ (Ps. 60: 1-3). What gives? Someone sounds a tad bent out of shape, don’t you think?

Basically, the King complains to God that the Almighty has rejected His people, who ironically are the same blokes who turn their collective backs on God. David doesn’t try to hide his feelings. Hardly. Is that a hint? Not to play phony-baloney nicey-nice with your God when you’re seething under the collar?

But, by all means, don’t get stuck in the muck and mire of blaming and griping the One who least deserves it. Read on with King David. Psalm 60: 4-5–‘You have set up a banner for those who fear you, that they may flee to it from the bow. That your beloved ones may be delivered, give salvation by your right hand and answer us!’

In battle, look for the flag or banner of your own troops. Likewise, hang tough with like-minded believers and a church where the truths of biblical Christianity are held high and revered. Don’t be fooled into joining enemy lines. Flee all such. Get back to where you belong.

As Christians, we know that Jesus is our banner. He’s the One we can safely flee to, where help can be found. Jesus’ nourishment and encouragement are exactly what we need.

St. Paul writes this–‘No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it’ (1 Cor. 10: 13). God provides the escape route, leading us to the protected and secure place. We see the banner of His Son Jesus waving high in the sky. Will we follow Him? Stay ever closer to His side? Trust Him no matter what?

Whatever trouble dogs you today, look around patiently for indications of the Lord’s direction and presence. A friendly ‘banner’. Something good from an unexpected source. A flag that lets you know that you’re not alone. That the Special One is right there with you. Who? You know! The Resurrected Jesus whom we celebrate on Easter.

So, thank Him for standing pat, feet planted solidly in His love, never leaving you in the lurch.

Lord Jesus, thank you for being so good to me. I love you. Amen.