By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com

This week, Governor Kay Ivey announced the end of Alabama's "stay-at-home" causing many on my Facebook page to question whether or not this is the time to leave "our safe place." 

For most Americans, being indoors has provided some sort of comfort in these trying times of COVID-19, but regardless of your feelings on lifting the restrictions caused by this virus, we all have a safe place that's available to us no matter where we're at. 

In Psalm 46:1-2, the Bible says, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea." (KJV)

It's clear from this verse alone that no matter where we are or what kind of sin-filled world we're surrounded by, God is with us and provides a safe place for those who choose to believe in the promise of salvation and accept Christ as Lord. 

This safe place, unlike the temporary bindings and quiet resolute provided by staying in our homes, will never end. There are no restrictions that can be lifted on it and the protection it provides is everlasting. 

This week, as many of us struggle with readjusting to some sense of normalcy, take refuge in God's safe place, and give thanks for the blessings he provides.