Death is not the end of existence. “… even in death, the righteous have a refuge.” David, Solomon’s father often referred to the Lord God as his refuge. He said: “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior– from violent men you save me… He is a shield for all who take refuge in him… Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge… I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer. Show the wonder of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their foes.” (2 Samuel 22:2-3, 31, 16:1, 17:6-7)
No greater foe is there than death who overpowers and defeats everyone. “When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down…” No matter how powerful or rich the wicked, they cannot defeat the calamity death brings. David warned, “Therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned, you rulers of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry and you be destroyed in your way, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all who take refuge in him.” (Psalm 2:10-12)
Jesus, the Son boldly proclaimed, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed… For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does. Yes, to your amazement he will show him even greater things than these. For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it.” (John 8:34-36, 5:20-21)
Therefore, “Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.” (Psalm 34:8) Take refuge in the Son of God, Jesus, and live forever in his power and love.
