“In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge” (Proverbs 14:26).

Have you ever heard of a refuge? There are many spots on earth set apart as special places to protect certain animals. For example, a wildlife refuge is a safe haven to shelter and protect wild animals from being hunted or fished. The animals are safe in that area.

In times of war, sometimes an outside country not involved in the war will set up camps to shelter people trying to escape all the fighting. These places are called refugee camps. In 2016, there were over 65 million refugees around the world—the largest number on record. We should pray for those who don't want to fight and who no longer have a place to call home.

Jesus says, “My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight” (John 18:36). Faithful souls who follow Christ do not only come from one nation—they come from different countries all over the world, and Jesus teaches us not to fight.

There are many Bible verses that show God's tender care for His children who trust in Him. The psalmist prayed:

“Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men! Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man” (Psalm 31:19, 20).

“I will say of the Lord, he is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust” (Psalm 91:2).

Besides the problem of escaping violence, who is going to watch over us in times of storms, earthquakes, and famines?

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. . . . The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge” (Psalm 46:1–3, 7).

The children of the King of the universe are princes and princesses. They are royalty—yet in a fallen, unsafe world, they are still refugees. If we give our heart to Jesus, this includes us. We can enjoy the tender care of the Almighty both now and eternally.

“I will sing of thy power; yea, I will sing aloud of thy mercy in the morning: for thou hast been my defence and refuge in the day of my trouble. Unto thee, O my strength, will I sing: for God is my defence, and the God of my mercy” (Psalm 59:16, 17).