What Does It Mean For God to Be a Rock?

(5-9-23)

"In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame. (2) In your righteousness, rescue me and deliver me; turn your ear to me and save me.

(3) Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go; give the command to save me,

for you are my rock and my fortress. (4) Deliver me, my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of those who are evil and cruel."

Psalm 71:1-4

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In the opening verses of Psalm 71, the Psalmist calls on God to be his "rock of refuge" in the trial He is going through. Then, he calls God both His "rock" and "fortress". There are multiple instances in Scripture of God being referred to as a "rock" ( Duet. 32:3-4; 2 Sam. 22:32; Psalm 18:2; Isaiah 17:10 ), but what does it actually mean for God to be one?

The "use of rocky sites as places of refuge led to the frequent image of God as a rock, that is, a source of protection" (Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary)

When the Psalmist and others in the Bible refer to God as a Rock, they are referring to Him as a source of protection. Here, the Psalmist was specifically calling on God to be his protection from his enemies. The Psalmist first looked to God instead of looking to a sword or to other people for help. In situations that bring us fear, we can find refuge in God as the Psalmist did. In doing so, we can trust that He will never leave us and that He will guide us in how to properly deal with the trouble that comes our way. True security is found when we entrust ourselves to God because only He has full control over our lives.

Entrust yourself to the Eternal Rock for He is a safeguard in the midst of all trouble.

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God, thank You for being a Rock in the midst of trouble. Thank You for blessing us with being able to call on You and with being able to hear from You. Please help me to find refuge in You when I am afraid.. Thank You for everything that You do for me.

In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen