May 25

The word ‘rock’ conjures many scenarios in our mind’s eye. Who can forget walking to school and having the neighborhood bully hurl a stone that sent us running to Mom? Who can forget driving along in the car when a rock hit the windshield sending a crack the length of the Mississippi across its face?

But in the days before air conditioning, when desert days are unbearably hot, a large rock might mean the difference between life or death for a weary traveler. The Lord says HE is our Rock in our spiritual desert. When we are dry and languishing for Living Water, He is our supply. (Isaiah 32:2)

Additionally, the high ground was a great advantage to an army in the days before unmanned drone spy planes and spy satellites that can pinpoint an enemy and detail his movements. From the vantage point of a hill or mountain peak, an opposing force could assess his foe and formulate his strategy, not based on out-guessing the enemy but upon the reality of where he is and how he’s moving!

In that context, God promises to be our Rock. In Psalm 31:3 He affirms His strategic value to the believer. The psalmist says, “You are my Rock and my Fortress; therefore, for Your name’s sake, lead me and guide me.” We, too, from our position with Him, can see clearly, find shelter, and receive direction as to when and where we are to proceed when it’s time to march forth into the fray