Growing up I was mystified by old deserted mansions, it was always my dream to one day find a rare gem and restore it to its original glory. I envisioned it nestled within the overgrowth of silent stories that hung within the branches of stately old oaks, sheltered from the onward movement of years of time.

As I grew up I discovered many of these old mansions within the pages of books, learning of families of old that had once called similar structures home. Families that had met with numerous hardships and struggles, some that forced them out of their home and some that caused them to retreat within the walls of their home seeking solitude from a world that had rejected them. Today, I often find myself seeking this same sense of solitude; but, rather than retreating within the walls of a stately old home from the past, I find myself seeking refuge within the arms of my Lord. He has become my habitation.

“Be thou my strong habitation whereunto I may continually resort: thou has given commandment to save me; thou art my rock and my fortress.” Psalm 71:3

A fortress is a strong hold, a place of security. In my mind I envision the massive walls of a castle within which no harm can come for the Lord stands guard. He is my fortress, within Him I see refuge and find strength. He has promised to protect me from the evil that lies beyond, because I have made Him my habitation.

“Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.” Psalm 91:9-10

Habitation – a dwelling place.

I have made the Lord my habitation, in Him I have placed my trust. Within my habitation, I need fear no evil, for in my habitation I find rest and peace.

“And my people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.” Isaiah 32:18