Stronghold

"The Lord is good,
    giving protection in times of trouble.
    He knows who trusts in him."

Nahum 1:7 

There's just something about history that fascinates me.  The walled fortress that protected Constantinople saved the city from the 4th Century until 1453.  It was the use of cannons that finally broke the city in 1453 after a six week siege.  These walls protected the citizens of the Roman Empire from all invaders.  Yet in order to be allowed within the walls for protection, you had to be known by the defenders.

Life has a way of pounding us over and over and over and just when we're ready to crumble we remember that God is our Protector.  I'll admit my memory is not what it used to be, and I'll admit that when the attacks begin....my focus quickly shifts to defending myself against the attack rather than seeking the protection of God.  

The thing about fortresses is that once you are inside, you are not supposed to hide and hope the invaders go away.  You are expected to take part in the defense of the fortress and those who are in the protection with you. During the time of the fortress of Constantinople, the people who entered for protection were almost immediately put to work keeping the walls in good repair, helping the wounded, bringing food and water to the defenders, anything and everything to help those within the walls.

God knows who trusts Him.  He opens the gates to His protection, but we are expected to help those who are in the protection with us. 

First Question: Does God know that you trust Him?

Second Question: How are you helping those in protection with you?