Proverbs 18:10 states, “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.” This verse beautifully illustrates the power and protection that come from trusting in God’s name. But what does it mean that God’s name is like a strong tower? Let’s explore this metaphor and its meaning in depth.
The Name of the Lord Represents His Character
In biblical times, a person’s name was closely tied to their reputation and character. Similarly, the “name” of the Lord represents who He is. When we call upon His name, we’re calling on His very being – His attributes, promises, and faithfulness to His people. God’s name reveals His divine nature.
Throughout Scripture, God’s names reflect different aspects of His character. He is Yahweh, the self-existing eternal One (Exodus 3:14). He is Jehovah Jireh, the Lord who provides (Genesis 22:14). He is Jehovah Rapha, the Lord who heals (Exodus 15:26). He is Jehovah Shalom, the Lord of peace (Judges 6:24). And many more.
So when we read that the name of the Lord is a strong tower, it means who God is and everything He has revealed Himself to be is our source of strength and protection. His character is our refuge.
A Strong Tower Provides Safety from Enemies
In ancient times, towers were built as places of defense and security. Castles and fortresses would be equipped with watchtowers to spot approaching enemies and provide a vantage point if attacked. Towers gave protection to the people inside.
Like a strong tower, God’s name is a place of safety and security for us. When we face struggles like temptation, despair, uncertainty, and spiritual attack, we can call upon the name of the Lord to find refuge in Him (Psalm 61:3, Psalm 124:8). Just as a watchman keeps vigil atop a tower watching for invaders, God watches over us and protects us from the attacks of the enemy.
The Name of the Lord is Mightier Than Any Earthly Stronghold
Not only is God’s name a source of defense, but it infinitely surpasses manmade fortresses in its strength and impenetrability. As high and secure as an ancient tower may seem, it crumbles in comparison to the unconquerable name of the Almighty God.
No enemy can scale the heights of His love and mercy. No weapon formed against us can penetrate the walls of His salvation, righteousness, and care (Isaiah 54:17). His power, wisdom, and sovereignty form an impregnable barrier between us and anything that seeks to harm our soul.
When we feel powerless before trials and enemies, we can take refuge in the matchless power and might of our God. Calling upon His name reminds us that He is stronger than anything we will ever face (Psalm 46:1).
The Name of the Lord is a Place of Heightened Perspective
In addition to defense, towers provided the advantage of perspective. Standing high above ground level gave watchmen greater visibility and insight to detect far-off threats.
This imagery points to how relying on God’s name gives us a spiritual perspective we wouldn’t have otherwise. When we’re in the midst of confusing or stressful situations, we can call on Him to gain higher understanding. We access His divine wisdom and all-knowing insight into our circumstances (James 1:5).
While we may feel unable to discern the way forward, God sees the full picture. As we call upon Him, He lifts us above the “fog” of life and gives us clearer vision from His majestic vantage point.
The Lord’s Name Brings Us Near to Him
One of the greatest blessings of the Lord’s name is the access it grants us to His very presence. In ancient times, to be invited into someone’s tower was to be allowed into their innermost place of refuge. We see this intimacy reflected spiritually.
Calling on the name of the Lord brings us close to Him – into the shelter of His wings (Psalm 91:4). Through Jesus Christ, we can boldly approach God’s throne of grace to find mercy and help (Hebrews 4:16). We have direct access to the inner chamber of His protection.
What could make us feel safer and more secure than being ushered into the holy presence of the all-powerful King of Kings? His name grants us this immense privilege.
The Name of the Lord is Available to All Who Seek Refuge in Him
While towers were limited in space, God’s tower of defense has room enough for every believer who wishes to enter. Scripture contains many promises that when we run to Him, He will welcome us in:
“The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” (Proverbs 18:10)
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)
“The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him.” (Nahum 1:7)
No matter our background, sins, or past failures, His name is a place of sanctuary for every repentant heart. There are no walls high enough to block His love and protection from those who seek Him.
We Must Run to the Tower
However, it’s important to note this verse says the righteous “run” into God’s name. His benefits are not experienced automatically – we must actively go to Him. We do this by calling out to Him in prayer, worship, praise, meditation on Scripture, and by living in godliness.
Difficulties will come, but we can choose whether we try surviving them alone or run to the mighty tower of God’s presence for shelter. One path leads to anxiety, instability, and fear. The other leads to confidence, peace, and faith as we entrust ourselves to His care.
What an incredible gift that such powerful protection is available simply by calling upon the Lord’s name. May we stay continually near our place of refuge.
The Name of the Lord Brings Salvation
Not only is God’s name a source of defense and protection for believers, it is also the means of initial salvation. Calling on the name of the Lord is how we are saved from sin in the first place:
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13)
“There is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)
It’s only through recognizing Jesus Christ as Lord and calling out to Him that our sins can be forgiven and our relationship with God restored. We begin our spiritual lives sheltered in His mercy and grace.
The Name of the Lord Represents His Ownership Over Us
In ancient times, towers and citadels often bore the name of their owner, such as the towers of David or the fortress of Antonia. Likewise, when we take refuge in God’s name, we declare His lordship over us. We are no longer our own but have been bought with the blood of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Just as bearing someone’s name demonstrated ownership and allegiance, we bear God’s name in our hearts as a seal that we belong to Him. He is our Master, Protector and Refuge.
The Name of the Lord Wards Off Evil
Throughout history, God’s name has shown powerful authority against demonic oppression and activity. Calling on the name of Jesus brings freedom and deliverance to those held in spiritual bondage:
“But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles—to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.” (Acts 26:16-18)
“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11)
Standing on the authority of Christ’s name protects us from spiritual attack. As we call upon His power, the forces of darkness must flee.
Trusting in His Name Aligns Us with His Will
As we’ve seen, calling on the name of the Lord provides many benefits – salvation, protection, freedom, access to God’s presence. But dwelling in His name also aligns our hearts with His will. The more we know and rely on who He is, the more our desires shift to match His own.
By continually seeking our refuge in Him, we become conditioned to see from His perspective. His thoughts become our thoughts, His ways become our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). Our will and purpose fuse with His.
The name of the Lord transforms everything about us. This is the blessing and power that comes from making His name our dwelling place.
Key Takeaways
To summarize, here are some key truths about the name of the Lord as revealed in Proverbs 18:10:
- The name of the Lord represents His divine nature, character, and attributes.
- It brings protection and deliverance from spiritual enemies.
- His name has far greater strength than any earthly fortress.
- It provides heavenly perspective when we lack wisdom and clarity.
- Dwelling in His name gives us intimate access to His presence.
- All are welcome to take refuge in His name.
- We must actively run to Him – protection is not automatic.
- It’s the only means of salvation from sin.
- His name demonstrates ownership and lordship over followers.
- It has authority and power over demonic oppression.
- Relying on His name aligns our will with God’s purposes.
May we never stop calling upon the matchless name of Jesus. He is our tower of strength, now and for all eternity.