Proverbs 18:10 The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
We used to sing a song:
Blessed be the name of the Lord,
Blessed be the name of the Lord,
Blessed be the name of the Lord Most High!
The name of the Lord is a strong tower,
The righteous run into it,
And they are saved.
I remember how everyone got involved with the song and its actions (ending in a great cheer!).
We visit castles – mostly in ruins now. Maybe the Fortified Tower of this proverb does not resonate well? I cannot think of a better illustration though. It is meant to describe a place of complete safety. It refers back to the provision of Cities of Refuge like Hebron. These cities were fortified, belonged to the Priests and Levites, and had a citadel, fortress within.
The righteous run to the strong tower. This describes people who were thought to be guilty (of murder for example) and needed to escape the avenger. We, who trust in the Lord Jesus are declared righteous through faith and are entitled to the protection of God against the accuser and avenger. We hide ourselves in Jesus Christ our Lord, our Fortress. But, I note, we need to RUN! Faith needs action and energy.
Oh, sinner man, where you’re gonna run to?
Run to the Lord, “Lord, won’t You hide me?”
Run to the Lord, “Lord, won’t You hide me?”
Run, run, “Lord, won’t You hide me all on that day?”