The Rock of Escape

Therefore, Saul returned from pursuing David and went against the Philistines; so, they called that place the Rock of Escape. 1 Samuel 23:28 (NKJV)

1 Samuel 23 is a story of God always keeping David safe, even when he was asked to go into danger. The people of Keilah were being attacked by the Philistines, and David inquired of the Lord, who told him to go save them. His men told him that it was a suicide mission, so David inquired again, and God said that he would be protected. After David defeated the Philistines, Saul heard about his whereabouts and headed to the city to kill him. David inquired again to the Lord, who told him to flee the city. David escaped from the Wilderness of Ziph and then was cornered in the Wilderness of Maon. It seemed that Saul was going to catch David, but God sent the Philistines into the land, causing Saul to withdraw his pursuit. David called the area the Rock of Escape and was able to escape to the stronghold of En Gedi.

The Rock of Escape serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the assurance that He watches over His followers, offering refuge and strength in times of distress. Jesus says in Matthew 7:24-25, “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock." We are going to have trials, and we are going to be tested, but as long as we go to Jesus, he keeps us safe. Jesus is our Rock of Escape because He provides spiritual refuge, strength, and a divine way out of sin, temptation, and trials.

Choose to make Jesus your Rock of Escape. Make Jesus your foundation and build on the Rock. Understand that you were not made to handle life's storms alone, but with Jesus as your guide and protector. Always pray about every situation, cling to His Word, and lean on your brothers and sisters for support. Choose to run from temptation, changing your focus to Christian music, reading scripture, or calling a Christian friend. Remember to trust in His promises that He will provide a way to endure and escape every temptation and trial. Jesus is our Rock who provides a way to escape.