"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty" is a popular Bible verse that most Christians quote in times of trouble. However, majority do not seem to key into the “shadow” they religiously profess. This would lead me to the story behind the popular hymnal “rock of ages, cleft for me”.
Augustus Toplady, a devoted English clergyman, had a heart for sharing the Good News. One stormy day, while preaching in the countryside, he sought refuge in a rugged rock formation. As he waited for the skies to clear, his gaze fell upon the rock’s rugged surface, and his mind began to wander.
Toplady’s thoughts turned to the Bible’s many references to Christ as our Rock, our safe haven. Isaiah 44:8, with its reassuring words, “Fear not, nor be afraid,” resonated deeply. Inspired, he pulled out his pen and paper and began to write.
The rock’s natural crevice became a powerful metaphor for Christ’s pierced side, a symbol of the refuge and salvation available to all. As Toplady poured his heart onto the page, the hymn titled “Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me” was born.
This beloved hymn has brought comfort to countless souls over the centuries. Its enduring melody, often credited to Thomas Hastings, has become synonymous with faith and hope.
Here’s the iconic first verse:
“Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From Thy riven side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure;
Cleanse me from its guilt and power.”
Toplady’s stormy encounter with the rock became a divine appointment, yielding a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift generations.
However, why does it seem like the refuge in Him is very far fetched in our contemporary time? When we call on Him for refuge, why does it feel very casual and religious, like we don’t even expect Him to come through.
"The name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous runs into Him, and he’s saved" (paraphrased). Yes, that is the answer (running). To key into the refuge in His presence, we have to first recognize that we are not sheltered, and we need His refuge. Only then can we go boldly to Him and He’ll shield us.
The perfect Biblical example to let us fully understand is in the story of David. He totally keyed into God’s refuge as long as he lived. Let’s check it together.
David: A Life of Trust and Refuge
Imagine being a young shepherd, tending to your father’s flocks in the rolling hills of ancient Israel. That’s where David’s story begins. But this unassuming shepherd boy was destined for greatness. He was anointed by the prophet Samuel to become the future king of Israel, and his life would never be the same.
Trials and Tribulations
David’s journey was far from smooth sailing. He faced some serious challenges, including:
· Persecution by King Saul: Can you imagine being hunted by the very person who was supposed to protect you? That’s what David faced when King Saul became jealous of his popularity and sought to kill him.
· Battle with Goliath: David’s faith in God gave him the courage to confront the giant Goliath, whom he defeated with a stone and a sling. Talk about an underdog story!
Finding Refuge in God
Despite the ups and downs, David consistently turned to God for guidance, protection, and strength. He poured his heart out to God in prayer and song, often expressing his trust and dependence on Him. In Psalm 27:5, David writes:
“For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.”
David’s trust in God’s protection and provision helped him navigate many challenges, including:
· Adultery and betrayal: David made some serious mistakes, like his affair with Bathsheba and his role in Uriah’s death. But he found forgiveness and restoration through repentance and faith.
· Absalom’s rebellion: When David’s son Absalom led a rebellion against him, David found comfort in God’s presence and was ultimately able to reclaim his throne.
All in all, there is a whole load of refuge in God’s presence. He is our present help in times of trouble. Our ole, however, is to run to Him and key into all the protection that could be found in Him.
Shalom.
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