In His Shadow

During the heat of the July afternoon, with thunder clouds building in the distance, I was sitting out back on the screened porch when out of the corner of my eye I saw two large birds soaring high over the tree tops. My attention didn’t linger more than a few seconds, however; in a minute or two on the opposite bank of the pond two large, dark shadows passed overhead. I immediately thought of Psalm 91:1 which says, "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”

What does it mean, to rest in the shadow of the Almighty? Let’s look first at the word rest. Webster defines it as relaxation, to ease up/off, leisure or to slow down. If you are resting then I imagine a time of quietness, sitting in your favorite chair perhaps with a cup of tea, working at nothing and no worries. There is another definition that caught my eye, rest meaning a support. Does God not support us with His mighty hand? So, in light of all this I think I can reduce the thought to simply, casting your burdens upon Him, for He cares for you. We find this truth in Psalm 55:22 and 1 Peter 5:7. This will allow rest for the believer as well as allowing the knowledge that we are held up and held close by God our heavenly Father.Now consider the shadow; in particular, the shadow of God. Take a look at Isaiah 51:16, “I have put My words in your mouth and have covered you with the shadow of My hand.” Or Psalm 36:7, “How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! And the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.” This shadow, spiritual and supernatural is portrayed here as a refuge, a protection against something. What a beautiful picture! There are many more references to God’s shadow providing protection and refuge in the Bible.I pray you know that place of quiet rest in the shadow of the Almighty!