The Lord is my Rock and my Fortress and my Deliverer, my God, my Rock, in whom I take refuge, my Shield, and the Horn of my salvation, my Stronghold. Psalm 18:2
The Lord is my Rock. We use similar terminology even today speaking of a trusted friend as a “rock” who got us through a tough time. We mean someone reliable, stable, and strong.
Rock is a frequent Biblical picture and metaphor. That makes sense if you’ve ever been to Israel. There are rocks everywhere. The Hebrew word tsur is translated as rock but it connotes a large rock or even a mountain or cliff.
David, the poet king, man after God’s own heart, called God his Rock. David had spent years in the desert wilderness climbing over the crags and hiding in the caves. The shepherd king knew rocks. What was it about God that David was drawing on?
God is firm, immovable and stable. “Build your house on a rock” is good practical advice as well as spiritually wise. God is never changing and won’t sway in the wind with each passing fad or idea. He also won’t crumble under the weight of my difficulties or trials.
God is able to protect me. He is a fortress from my enemy and a refuge from the chaos of life. David found shelter and protection in the rocky terrain. The picture of rock portrays His strength and ability to shield those who find shelter with Him.
Rocks in the desert also provide shade from scorching sun and heat. And we can be reminded that God also provides relief when we need it most, when the heat of life is bearing down on us and we can’t continue.
The Lord is my Rock. He will never be crushed or let me down. I cling to His faithfulness, His immovability and stability – even though I waver inside. When all else is shifting sand by comparison, God is my Rock. He is my Fortress, my firm Foundation.
Trust in the Lord forever, for in God the Lord, we have an everlasting Rock. Isaiah 26:4
