Everyone needs a hiding place. When we are verbally attacked, we need a safe emotional corner to rest in as we consider the source. When we are confused, frustrated and befuddled, we need a calm space and time to think. When we hurt, we all need a bit of comfort, a time out with heaps of reassurance.

In Corrie ten Boom’s famous book, The Hiding Place, she describes the false wall that was built into her bedroom. It created a secret room in which her family hid Jews from the Nazis. Eventually, her family was betrayed and sent to concentration camps, but the Jews hidden in that secret space escaped detection.

Our Bible has a special Hebrew term for “hiding place.” It is “sitrah” and means to “hide or conceal.” The term carries the idea of protecting as it hides. David uses it is Psalm 119:114. “You art my hiding place and my shield, I have put my hope in your word.”

David understood that his only protection or source of real comfort was found in the life giving words of God. He sought out that safe place every time he immersed himself in the Torah.

David used that same term in Psalm 17:8 when he wrote, “Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of your wings.” He must have been picturing the tender care of a mother bird that hides her chicks under the span of her wings. Nothing can harm the little one while they snuggle in that environment.

And one more illustration of that same concept is found in Psalm 27:5 where David rejoices “in the time of trouble, the Lord shall hide me in the pavilion (or shepherd’s tent) and set me upon a rock.”

This week is a great time to seek some Godly shelter. I am not aware of all the needs represented by those who read these musings, but I can imagine that there is a wide array of hurts and disappointments. Some of the pain is physical and you need a fresh breath of energy and stamina. I am confident that the Lord will tuck you away and provide just what you need.

Others may need some emotional refreshment. A time out in the quiet “cave of the Savior” will bring the respite. If you are spending your days deflecting the verbal blows of family members or co-workers, seek His face and rest in His arms. There is a hiding place for every situation and every pain.

I make that statement on the authority of His word: “You are my hiding place, you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.” (Psalm 32:7)

Tuck away, and listen to the music for a while.