Did you have a favorite hiding spot or quiet place as a child? One of mine was at my grandparents’ house—in a closet that had access to the attic. There was a little ledge up there, just big enough for my sister and me to host tea parties. My grandma would sit on the step below and sip imaginary tea with us. But that spot became more than just a play area. It became a place I returned to when I needed space to think, write, or simply be still.
Even though my grandparents no longer own that house, that little corner of the attic was a true safe place for me. It brought comfort when I was scared, angry, or overwhelmed.
As an adult, those emotions haven’t disappeared. I still have moments of fear, frustration, or anxiety. But I’ve realized that grown-up life doesn’t always offer a physical place to hide. When we don’t have a space to run to, we can start to feel lost. We often turn to things that seem comforting—self-help books, entertainment, even unhealthy habits—but those only offer temporary relief. In those desperate moments, where can we run for lasting comfort?
But, what if that place wasn’t actually a place, but a person?
Jesus as Our Refuge
Since I was a kid, I have struggled with vivid nightmares. I still, as an adult, occasionally wake up clutching my sheets and gasping for breath. That fear I felt as a child hasn’t completely gone away. But something has changed. Since becoming a Christian, I’ve learned to call on the name of Jesus when fear tries to take over. In the middle of the night, and when I have awoken enough to understand where I am at, I’ve whispered, “In Jesus’ name, go away,” and peace has followed.
That simple act of saying His name has become my new hiding place. Jesus has become my refuge, and this can be true for you too. When fear, anxiety, or sorrow rise up, speaking His name can bring supernatural calm. Psalm 46:1 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
He is the peace in the storm, the rescuer when the walls cave in, and the hand that lifts us out of the pit. He invites us to come to Him: “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Jesus doesn't just offer relief—He offers Himself.
Jesus’ Presence Is Our Constant Safe Place
The beautiful thing about the refuge we find in Jesus is that it never fades, and it’s never out of reach. When we put our trust in Him as Lord and Savior, His Spirit takes residence within us. Through His selfless act of salvation, Jesus pours His Holy Spirit into us—to help us, guide us, and make us more like Him.
Unlike the attic nook I once shared with my sister, the safe place we now have in Jesus is constant, unchanging, and always accessible. He promises in Matthew 28:20, “… I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Through every season, through every trial, He is with us.
Jesus, the Ultimate Comforter
No matter where life leads or what trials come our way, the presence of Jesus remains our unshakable refuge—a safe place that moves with us, strengthens us, and never disappears. Whatever you're facing today, know this: Jesus sees it. He knows the thoughts racing through your mind, the burdens you’re carrying, and the pain that doesn’t seem to go away. And still, He invites you into His peace.
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”
—Psalm 91:1
I may not have that secret hiding spot anymore, but I do have a safe place for my soul, and His name is Jesus. Where do you go when life feels heavy? What might it look like invite Jesus into that place?
Cover photo by Sergi Simona on Unsplash
© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
