Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.—Psalm 91:1 (NIV)
“I’d hate to be out in that!” The storm hit suddenly on this super-heated summer night. From the comfort of our family room, I’m watching it rage. Trees whip in the wind. The roll of thunder seems unending. Rain pelts our metal roof with the fierceness of hail.
As I sip tea and note an especially strong flash of lightning, gratitude swells. I’m glad I’m not out in that. But I could be . . . out in life’s storms. Unprotected from the harsh words, the biting winds of disappointment, the endless roll of anxiety. Instead, Jesus has invited me inside to take refuge in His shelter. Let the winds blow. I’m safe, secure, aware of what rages outside but undamaged by its fury. I’m living through what threatens because I accepted His invitation to ride it out within the shelter of His love and grace.
Shelter, or Refuge, is one of my favorite attributes of Jesus. Like my taste in favorite songs, my favorite attribute changes depending on the circumstances. Some days it’s Jesus as Healer, or as Provider, or as Defender. Tonight, as the storm roars and spits, as it takes trees to their knees and sends anything untethered flying, I rest within the safe shelter of His embrace, grateful that He held the door wide open to welcome me in.
And I’ll spend time praying for those who are still out in it, soaked and shivering, cold and lost. Oh, one more thing. I’ll turn on the porch light so they can find their way to safety. —
Faith Step: Is someone within your circle of influence waiting for you to turn on the porch light? Will you?
Adapted from Mornings with Jesus
