As I watch the news concerning the thousands of refugees fleeing their countries in desperation, I can almost feel their anguish and their fear. Thousands are leaving behind their homes and their families, because of terror of losing their lives. They are moving forward to the unknown.

I can feel their anguish, as I was in the same situation 41 years ago. I, too, put what I could in a small bag and fled a terrifying situation. I had no idea where I would end up, but I knew I had to get out. My life depended on it.

When I was 14, after spending 10 years in foster care, I went back home to my natural parents. I had no clue of my natural father’s mental illness. I lived with his terror and violence until I was 19.

Then the wake-up call came. That was when he placed a loaded gun to my head and said he was going to kill me, then my mother, then himself. I had no reason not to believe him. I was frozen while the gun pressed against the side of my head. He cocked the gun, and I silently prayed for God’s mercy. I am writing this story today because he did put down the gun.

I knew then and there I had to leave, so while my parents slept, I fled. I had no idea where I would end up, or where I was going. I can only tell you that God was with me, directing my steps. You can read about the miracles and how I ended up from one city to another in this article that I wrote, “Get Out …Your Life May Depend On it.”

I understand all the emotions these refugees are going through: the terror, the fear, the unknown. What saved me was calling on God for help. While walking and not knowing where I was going, I ended up at a bus station. I started asking for money, but no one would give it to me. I wanted to purchase a bus ticket to get out of the city so my father could not find me. After being refused, I went into the bathroom and told God: “I can’t do it without you. I need your help.” As soon as I left the bathroom, there was a gentleman waiting for me and handed me the money I needed to buy that bus ticket. Others started handing me money, but I would not take it as I only ask for bus fare. There is no way I could have survived without God’s help! When I got on the bus, I had no idea what lay ahead of me, but I felt free because I knew God was with me.

When I think about my personal escape many years ago, those same emotions well up inside of me. I am sure that these are the same emotions that thousands of refugees feel.

While we watch this horrific news unfold in the comfort of our homes, we need to pray: “Thy Kingdom Come.” Pray not just for all those refuges who are fleeing, but for all people who feel they are in a hopeless situation; for all of mankind. We need to pray for their deliverance.

That can only come from a loving Father who will deliver them and usher in hope. He will remove their fear and comfort them. Even my father will one day be delivered from his torment.

Jeremiah 23:4 states: “Then I will appoint responsible shepherds who will care for them, and they will never be afraid again. Not a single one will be lost or missing. I, the Lord, have spoken!" And eventually: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever" (Revelation 21:4).

There is a time coming when everyone will live in peace. “Everyone will live in peace and prosperity, enjoying their own grapevines and fig trees, for there will be nothing to fear” (Micah 4:4). The Lord of Heaven's Armies has made this promise! 

But if you are in a hopeless situation now, you don’t have to wait until Christ returns for Him to deliver you! He is there for you now, just call on Him for help! How great God is!