Most of us have been stunned to see reports of the unprovoked aggression in Eastern Europe.

Innocent families have suffered needlessly, and many have lost their lives.

Today, on Insight for Living, Chuck Swindall continues his study in Joshua 20.

In this passage, the writer describes designated cities that were set aside as sanctuaries, or cities of refuge.

In this message, Chuck draws a parallel that resonates with people of compassion,

and he brings application to anyone who's under attack.

Let's pick up the study that Chuck titled Needed a Safe Place to Heal.

A stumble upon Psalm 31, notice that it's a song, the word means song that's dedicated to the choir

director and is composed by David. We're not even told why he wrote it until we get into the song.

Lord, I've come to you for refuge. He goes on to say, don't let me be disgraced.

There's shame in that word. When we feel ashamed, we are especially vulnerable and secretive.

There aren't too many people we feel safe to share shameful news with.

You're always safe with the Lord. David felt safety, and he said, don't let me feel this deeply.

Save me for you. You do what is right. Turn your ear. Look at this. To listen to me. He just

needed to talk. Sometimes that's the most helpful way to get the stuff out that's plaguing us,

that's haunting us. Look at what he says. Verse 9, I have mercy on me, oh Lord, for I am in distress.

Tears bore my eyes, my body, and my soul are withering away.

First, he needs a refuge because he's in distress and sorrow surrounds him.

He even admits that he's crying. David says my eyes are blurred from tears.

So because of sorrow, he's surrounded by all of this inner pain. Look at the next verse.

I'm dying from grief. It might be rendered guilt. My ears are shortened by sadness.

Sin has drained my strength. I'm wasting away from within. Ah, there's the next reason.

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