The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe. Proverbs 18:10 NASB
To gain a fresh look at this familiar verse, it’s helpful to do a quick word study of the Hebrew words originally selected and penned by the writer, under the inspiration of God.
Name – shem = the idea of definite and conspicuous position; as a mark or memorial of individuality
Strong – oz = strength in various applications (force, security); might, power, strength
Tower – migdal = a tower (from its size or height)
Runs – ruwts = to run (for whatever reason, especially to rush); to run swiftly, dart; move quickly, hurry
Safe – sagab = especially inaccessible; by implication, safe, strong; to be (too) high (for capture)
I think the International Standard Version’s translation comes the closest to the original:
The name of the LORD is a strong tower; a righteous person rushes to it and is lifted up above the danger.
Every Christian is a target as the enemy as he wanders around looking for someone to devour. If you’ve served God any length of time you know how fierce his attack can be! It’s great to know we have a place to go where we can be safely protected, lifted up high above the danger. At the first sign of attack, we can run into God’s presence, where we will be inaccessible, completely out of the enemy’s reach!
As I think about this verse, I see myself sitting high up at the top of a strong stone tower, looking out the window. From the tower, I can clearly see the attack against me in every direction, but I have no fear, because the enemy cannot shoot his arrows high enough to reach me! I am well protected, and enjoy the view from my tower window!
This imagery brings another verse to mind:
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 NIV
We move quickly and swiftly to our God, because He is the only one in a position to give us the protection we need!
This information for this word study comes from the Strong’s Online Concordance presented by Blue Letter Bible, https://www.blueletterbible.org/kjv/pro/18/1/ss1/s_646001