Everyone has had life’s foundations, including relational, political, and moral support give way. (“Foundations” in vs 3 is “shata” in Hebrew meaning political and moral support; i.e. 82:5) Most are too familiar with life-pillars unexpected shaking. Just as citizens living in cities built near a seismic fault ask, “What can we do now that shaking has begun?” so when life’s foundations are being destroyed we ask, “What can the righteous do?”
Unwise advice answers, “Flee like a bird to your mountain. For look, the wicked bend their bows; they set their arrows against the strings to shoot from the shadows at the upright in heart.” Perhaps the opinion is from a hero, friend, relative, spouse, or confidant. Perhaps it is from my sinful nature. The advice seems reasonable and wise. But is it? Though a mountain retreat may give temporary relief, if I can flee to the mountain, so the wicked can follow. And what is to eat and drink on a mountain? If I leave without the Lord, can my soul be fed the bread of life when I arrive at the top without him?
“In the LORD I take refuge.” When the foundations are being destroyed the righteous can take refuge in the LORD. “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.” (Psalm 62:1-2)
