This is an ancient wisdom that we are, once again, being confronted with here. It is a challenge in every age. We see it here in Proverbs, we see it in the time of Jesus, and it remains a full frontal challenge to us today. Our eternal souls will not find their strength, or their safety in wealth, or in temporal power, or in military might. These things will be found only in the name of the Lord.

This wisdom was true for the writers of Proverbs. “The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” God’s wisdom has not changed. This is still true for us today. But as we see, it is only the righteous that recognize this.

The world measures one’s worth by things like bank accounts, titles, fame, and power. Those who are caught up in the world, more often than not, are also caught up in the notion that it is these things that that save them. God has given us gifts to achieve prosperity in this world, to be recognized for our skills and talents. And, when we find ourselves in positions of fame, or power because of these God-given gifts, he want us not to cling to these things, but to use them in his name, to serve those who are in need, to work for justice, to make the world a better place, not just for ourselves, but for all.

When times get difficult, as they have in the past, and will again in the future, the righteous do not put their faith in these earthly things, rather, they put their whole faith in the name of the Lord. It is in the Lord alone that we have a fortified tower that can withstand the world’s temptations, that can protect us from the real injustices that come against us in this world as a result of human sinfulness. God alone is the fortified tower that will offer the righteous a safe sanctuary that cannot, and will not, be overthrown. It is the righteous, those who have come to know God, who live their public and their private lives in accord with God’s will, who can say without guile, “In God we trust.”

Lord, by your grace, help us to remain free from the temptation to put our faith in worldly things. Give us the wisdom to always see that you alone are our mighty fortress, our faithful rampart against the terrors of the night. We pray that you strengthen our faith and make us strong in righteousness. We give you thanks for your love and your faithfulness to us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen!

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