Safety in the Rock

The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer. 2 Samuel 22:2

I enjoy learning new things, especially when a life lesson is involved. I did not even know such a cute little critter like this has existed for thousands of years. Please read this information about the rock hyrax, (from Moving Mountains) and discover how they have survived.

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An Amazing Fact: The rock hyrax is a terrestrial mammal that resembles a guinea pig and is found in Israel. As its name revels, it lives among rocks in which it can quickly escape from predators. The animals are especially known for using sentries that send out alarm calls from high points if a predator comes close.

Hyraxes (called “conies” or “rock badgers” in the Bible) typically live in groups of 10-80. Their ability to regulate body temperature is limited so their activity is related to seasons and times of the day. They are short and squatty with a weight of about nine pounds and a length of almost 20 inches. Their thick fur ranges from a dark brown color to a lighter gray, depending on the climate.

Hyrax herds are often subdivided into smaller groups of 5 to 15, with a dominant male who defends and watches over the group. In Africa they are preyed upon by leopards, cobras, adders, wild dogs, and eagles. Yet in Israel the rock hyrax is rarely preyed upon because of its excellent system of sentries. This combined with living among the rocks and crags gives them considerable protection.

The Bible says, “There are four things which are little on the earth, but they are exceedingly wise” (Prov. 30:24). Besides the ant, locust, and spider, the hyrax is listed: “The rock badgers (hyrax) are a feeble folk, yet they make their homes in the crags (v.26).

Have you ever felt small, take heart! Wisdom has nothing to do with our size or strength. We can learn a few lessons from the rock hyrax. The first is to live for others. Be willing to be a “sentry” and share warnings to those you love. And second, learn to live in the shelter of the Rock. Jesus will protect you from the predator (Satan) who is seeking to take you down.

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Currently, it appears that Satan is working overtime to destroy us. Be encouraged, Jesus is our eternal Rock, and He will continue to fight for us. What a great promise!

Oh Safe to the Rock That Is Higher Than I

Heavenly Father, thank You for being our Rock, our Refuge. Teach us to be good sentries and help protect others. AMEN.