Written by Scripture:
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” — Proverbs 18:10 (KJV)
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Historical and Exegetical Context:
The Book of Proverbs is traditionally attributed to King Solomon, known for his wisdom. Proverbs 18:10 speaks to the protection and safety found in God. In ancient Israel, cities often had tall, fortified towers where people could run for protection during attacks. This imagery is used to describe God’s name as a place of ultimate security and safety for those who seek Him. The “name of the Lord” represents God’s character, His authority, and His presence. For the Israelites, calling on God’s name meant placing full trust in His power and protection during times of distress.
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Greek/Hebrew Word Insight:
The Hebrew word for “name” in this verse is שֵׁם (shem), which not only refers to a literal name but also encompasses the essence, reputation, and authority of God. To run to the “name of the Lord” means to seek refuge in His power and sovereignty. The word for “safe” is שָׂגַב (sagab), meaning “to be set on high” or “to be exalted.” This suggests that God not only provides safety but also lifts us above danger, protecting us from harm by positioning us securely in His care.
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Reflection:
As believers in Christ, we must learn how to operate in the authority that is in the name of Jesus. When a diplomat or ambassador of any kind is sent on a journey to a foreign land, it is never in their own name that they speak, but in the name of one who is greater than theirs. It is from the authority of the one who sent them that they are able to carry out their assigned duty while on mission. We have heard it before in movies, TV shows, or entertainment: “In the name of the King…” or “Stop in the name of the law!” These figures who speak these words understand that their own name is not enforceable, but the name of a greater power by which they were appointed grants them authority.
As sons and daughters of the King of kings ????, we are given authority to fulfill the Great Commission and walk in every aspect of kingdom power by exercising the use of the name by which every knee will bow in heaven and under heaven, and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. There is no other name greater than the name of Jesus Christ. In the dark days ahead, many will run to and fro in great fear, searching for safety and security from the things that will soon visit the earth. But for the beloved in Christ, you only need to find one sure place of refuge—it’s in the name of Jesus Christ, to whom we shall cry out and be delivered in our distress.
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Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank You for being our ensured refuge and our firm foundation when the world and everything in it shall be shaken. Thank You that our refuge is found not in a place but in a person—You. Thank You that it is in Your name, and by Your name alone, that all is needed for us to enter in. We love You, Father. It’s in Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
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Action Step:
Today, take time to reflect on the authority you have in the name of Jesus. Is there a situation in your life where you feel weak or overwhelmed? Speak the name of Jesus over it. Let His name be your refuge and strength. Make a point today to remind yourself that your safety is found in Him and Him alone.
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