Theological Geology

“The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge” Psalm 18:2

Rock – If I told you that David used two different words for “rock”, you might have the same question I did.  Why?  Isn’t a rock a rock?  Well, not quite.  One of these rocks is about personal safety and the other is about reliable character.  In English they look the same, but not in Hebrew.

Sela, the first occurrence of “rock” is a word that comes from the Arabic sala’a.  It means a fissure in the rock, a place where I can hide and be safe.  This is the word used in Numbers 20:8 about Moses striking the rock.  David ties sela to “fortress”.  My God hides me and keeps me safe.

But there is another word for “rock” here.  Sur is found in Job 14:18 and 1 Samuel 2:2.  Sur is a description of a massive boulder, a mountain of rock, a great rock cliff.  Here the imagery is not about hiding away in a crack but rather about the solid, unmovable mass.  This rock God is unshakeable.

David’s theological geology captures two important images of God.  The first is God’s intimate relationship with me.  It’s a description of my character.  When I’m afraid, I can hide in Him.  I am safe in Him.  He protects me.  The second is just as important.  It’s a description of God’s character.   God can’t be moved.  He is always reliable.  He is a solid foundation.

When I sing, “On Christ the solid rock I stand”, I need to keep both sela and sur in mind.  Yes, Jesus is the solid foundation under me.  But he is also the place where I find shelter in the storms of my life.  He’s my immovable, trustworthy friend, and he’s the one who hides me when I’m under attack.  Relationship based on character.  Isn’t that the way it’s supposed to be?  Is that what people would say about you?  “I know he will watch out for me.  He has great character.”