Psalm 91:1, “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” (NLT)
Psalm 91:1-2, “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.’” (NKJ)
Okay, it’s the middle of summer, but just imagine being lost in the woods during a winter storm. You’re cold, wet, and afraid. After several hours of wandering, you smell smoke. You turn a corner and see a remote cabin with a chimney. As soon as you approach the shelter, the door opens, you’re welcomed inside. You’re given a cup of hot cocoa, a blanket and told to warm yourself by the fire. A feeling of great relief overcomes you as you feel safe and protected from harm.
This is a small depiction of what’s happening in Psalm 91. Such shelter is found in God alone. The remote cabin in the illustration above is unknown to many. Many translations refer to God’s shelter as a “secret place.” Why? Because the promise of God’s protection in today’s reading comes with a condition — it’s only known to those who know God personally through Christ. In order to “abide under the shadow of the Almighty,” we must first “live in the shelter of the Most High” by investing time with Him in a personal way. It’s to rely on His strength in times of trouble and trust Him with the outcome. It’s leaning on His understanding when life makes no sense. It’s living by faith when we feel lost within the chaos of the world.
Have you found that “secret place?” Do you rely on God’s protection amid life’s storms? Do you spend time in fellowship with Him regularly to grow in your relationship with Jesus? It’s never too late to find such amazing shelter. Seek Him, and know His peace. Trust that He alone is the answer to life’s troubles. Abide in Him and find the hope that only He can provide.
Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your protection and strength. I will dwell in Your “secret place” as I “abide in the shadow” of Your loving arms. Draw near to me as I seek to grow in my relationship with You. Amen.