For thou hast been a shelter for me, [and] a strong tower from the enemy.
For thou hast been a shelter {H4268} for me, and a strong {H5797} tower {H4026} from {H6440} the enemy {H341}{H8802)}.
For you have been a refuge for me, a tower of strength in the face of the foe.
For You have been my refuge, a tower of strength against the enemy.
For thou hast been a refuge for me, A strong tower from the enemy.
-
Proverbs 18:10
¶ The name of the LORD [is] a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. -
Psalms 62:7
In God [is] my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, [and] my refuge, [is] in God. -
Psalms 140:7
O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, thou hast covered my head in the day of battle. -
2 Corinthians 1:10
Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver [us]; -
Psalms 116:2
Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon [him] as long as I live. -
Psalms 18:2
The LORD [is] my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, [and] my high tower. -
Isaiah 46:3
Hearken unto me, O house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, which are borne [by me] from the belly, which are carried from the womb:
Context
Psalm 61 is a heartfelt prayer of David, likely composed during a time of extreme distress or exile, as indicated by his cry "from the end of the earth" (verse 2). This psalm expresses a deep longing for God's presence and protection when overwhelmed by life's difficulties. Verse 3 provides the foundational reason for David's confidence and prayer: God's proven track record of faithfulness as a protector.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "shelter," machaseh (מַחֲסֶה), is frequently used in the Psalms to describe God as a refuge, a place of safety and reliance. It speaks to a deep sense of security found only in Him. The term "strong tower," migdal-oz (מִגְדַּל־עֹז), vividly portrays God as an unassailable fortress, a place of ultimate defense against all forms of threat. This combination highlights both the welcoming embrace of a shelter and the robust, unyielding strength of a fortified stronghold.
Practical Application
For believers today, Psalms 61:3 offers profound comfort and reassurance. In a world filled with uncertainties, anxieties, and both seen and unseen adversaries, this verse reminds us where our true security lies. Whether facing personal crises, spiritual attacks, or overwhelming circumstances, we are encouraged to remember that God remains our constant "shelter" and "strong tower." We can confidently run to Him, knowing that He has been, is, and always will be our faithful protector. This verse invites us to cultivate a life of trust, remembering God's past faithfulness and finding our refuge and strength in Him, especially when our hearts are overwhelmed.