A Good Stronghold!

“The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him.” (Nahum 1:7 NKJV)

This short verse—just nineteen words—is worth committing to memory. In it, we find three powerful truths, which are also promises:

  1. God is good.

  2. God is a stronghold in the day of trouble.

  3. God knows those who trust in Him.

A stronghold is a place of safety

It’s a fortress that enemies cannot easily penetrate. In ancient times, people fled to walled cities or mountain fortresses when danger came. David often hid in the strongholds of the wilderness when King Saul pursued him (1 Samuel 23:14). Those strongholds gave him rest, safety, and time to regroup.

Today, our stronghold isn’t a physical fortress

It’s the unshakable character of God. When storms hit, when bad news arrives, when life feels like it’s falling apart, we don’t have to search for a hiding place; our refuge is the Lord Himself.

Think of it like a tornado shelter

When the sirens go off, you don’t stand in the yard hoping the storm misses you—you run to the shelter, confident it will protect you. Or picture a bank vault: thick walls, impenetrable doors, designed to keep what’s inside safe from harm. God is far more secure than any vault, fortress, or shelter—He is the ultimate refuge.

Additional References

  • “The salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; He is their stronghold in time of trouble. The LORD helps and delivers them; He rescues and saves them from the wicked, because they take refuge in Him.” (Psalm 37:39–40)

  • “I am the good shepherd. I know My sheep and My sheep know Me.” (John 10:14)

Therefore

When trouble comes, don’t run to worry, fear, or self-reliance—run to the Stronghold. Pray honestly. Rest in His goodness. Trust that He knows you by name, sees your need, and will protect and sustain you. A fortress is only helpful if you enter it; in the same way, the Lord’s protection is experienced when we place ourselves fully in His care.

“For the LORD is good, and His loving devotion endures forever; His faithfulness continues to all generations.” (Psalm 100:5)

Mike Frenchbible promises, a good stronghold!