“that (…) we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us.” – Hebrews 6:18
Scripture reading: Hebrews 6:13-20
Jesus is our City of Refuge. When we flee to Him, trusting in His forgiveness, we have good reason to be comforted by His protection. In ancient Israel there were six cities of refuge. They were spread throughout the land, to be easily accessible to all. There is something beautiful about each of the names of these cities because each one of them points us to Jesus in one way or another.
- There was Kedesh, which means, righteousness… that is what Jesus is for unclean sinners!
- There was Shechem, which means, shoulder… that is what Jesus is for the weary and heavy laden; Jesus gives us His shoulder to rest on!
- There was Hebron, which means fellowship… that is what Jesus is for those who feel lonely and forsaken!
- There was Bezer, which means, a stronghold… that is what Jesus is for those who are filled with fear and anxiety… a safe place!
- There was Ramoth, which means, exalted… that is what Jesus is for those who are humbled because of their sin, or, in the pit… He will lift them up and place them on the rock Higher than themselves.
- There was Golan, which means, separated… that is what Jesus does for those who are unable to separate themselves from sin…
What a reason we have to be comforted, to have a strong consolation, when we flee for Refuge to Christ! Let us therefore run to Him and lay hold of Him; He is the Hope set before us!
Suggestions for prayer
Thank God for everything He is in Christ to poor sinners. Take one of the names that best fit your situation and pray that God will exactly be that to you today.
Rev. Pieter van der Hoek served the Heritage Reformed Church of Burgessville ON Canada since May 2017. This year he took a call to the Heritage Reformed Church of Hull, Iowa USA. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. It is also available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.
