Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him. He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection. — Psalms 91:1–2 NLT

            A devastating forest fire destroyed acres and acres of beautiful forest land. After containing the fire, one of the firefighters noticed a carcass of a large bird along the trail. Why didn’t the bird fly away instead of staying on the forest floor? he wondered. As he drew closer, he nudged the body to the side and was startled by four small birds who came from underneath their mother’s body and ran/flew down the trail. Alive! The mother bird had protected her babies by covering them with her feathers. 

            Just as those baby chicks were protected by their mama, we can be protected by God’s shelter.

            My husband Jim and I have been meeting with a trainer to keep our bodies as strong as is possible. Just as we need to work our muscles to remain strong and do things to keep our balance as we age, we also need to work our spiritual muscles by reading the promises God provides us in his Word. There is truth and strength there, so when the fires come, we know where to run for safety. “His faithful promises are our armor and protection” (Psalm 91:2 NLT).

God is our refuge

Looking back over my life, I’ve learned in the difficult moments and scary times that if I went to God for refuge and safety—just like the chicks under their mama’s body were sheltered—I felt the safety of his protection. There were still troubles, but when I ran to him, I felt secure. I knew I wasn’t alone. 

            Once, in deep despair while at my husband Bill’s bedside, I heard singing down the hall in the hospital. The deep alto voice sang familiar gospel songs, and my spirit was encouraged. Another time, I felt there was nowhere to turn, and an old family friend just showed up to be with me. Another time, a friend brought some nourishing food while I waited in the hospital for news and didn’t want to leave Bill’s bedside.

            Perhaps you are at a good time in your life. It might be someone else that needs a boost. A hug. An encouraging note. A tasty meal. Sitting alongside a friend, you don’t always have to say something, just be there with them. Write out the verse about God’s protection on an index card and share it. Keep it handy for yourself. It’s always a good reminder.

Challenge

            What can you do to give encouragement to someone?  List some people who might need it. Don’t forget to write out the verse from Psalm 91:1–2. Keep it handy to give to someone or to encourage yourself.