Elohim Machase Lanu – God Our Refuge.

In 1979, the Caribbean region was struck by a devastating hurricane. It was a typical day; the sun shone brightly, and people went about their daily routines with no anticipation of disaster. I remember that day vividly, as if it happened just yesterday. My parents had sent me to Santo Domingo to study medicine. Although I was only there for about six to seven months, the impact of Hurricane David—a storm so fierce it nearly wiped out the entire island—left a lasting impression on me.

That day, I witnessed firsthand the destructive power of nature’s fury. From the living room window, I saw towering trees being ripped from the ground like toothpicks, and cars being lifted into the air as if they were cardboard boxes or toys. Many residents who heeded the warnings chose to stay indoors, regardless of whether there were visible signs of impending danger. Sadly, others who dismissed the warnings paid a steep price, facing danger and destruction.

This experience mirrors how we face life’s many storms. Often, we become so distracted or complacent that we ignore the warnings—warning signs from God and our surroundings—and fail to run to Him, our ultimate refuge and protector, through any storm. Yet, God promises to be with us, to preserve and protect us amidst life’s fiercest trials.

Psalm 46:1 affirms, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

Our Heavenly Father, Elohim Machase Lanu, is our ultimate refuge. He always cares for us and offers a safe haven when we seek His divine protection. He has provided a sanctuary where we can run when life’s storms threaten to overwhelm us.

Psalm 91:1-2 declares, Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”

Proverbs 18:10 reassures us, “The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”

Isaiah 41:10 encourages us, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Psalm 55:22 states, “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”

Psalm 32:7 reminds us, “You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.”

Psalm 18:2 affirms, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”

Nahum 1:7 assures us, “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.”

2 Samuel 22:2-3a describes, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation.” He is my stronghold, my refuge, and my savior.”

Psalm 91:1-2, 4-5 emphasizes, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and rampart. You will not fear the terrors of night, nor the arrow that flies by day.”

Scripture repeatedly reminds us that no matter what storms we encounter—be it hurricanes, tornadoes, or other natural disasters—our God is greater. He is our protector, caregiver, and the one who will carry us safely through any adversity.

Here’s a thought to consider when fierce storms like hurricanes and tornadoes whirl through our world: our instinct is to seek shelter and stay safe. But what about when life’s storms—our personal crises, trials, and heartbreaks—hit us? Why do we find it so hard to run to our Lord, the one who promises in scripture to shield us, comfort us, and guide us through every storm? What’s holding us back from fully surrendering and trusting in His faithfulness?

I’ve walked that path myself. I’ve faced distractions and doubts that pulled me away from embracing His unwavering love. But now I am sure that, even when things don’t go as I hope, one thing remains certain: His love for me runs deep, and He is a compassionate, good Father. So, why not choose to run to Him today? His arms are always wide open, and His promises will remain true.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unending love and constant protection in my life and in the lives of my loved ones. Help us, Lord, to always run to You, knowing that no matter what’s happening around us, You are with us and will carry us through every storm. In Jesus’ precious name, I pray. Amen.

Reference:

• Wolf, A. (2025). [Idlewild Park]. [Photograph]. Personal collection.
• Scripture quotations adapted from The Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.