But let all who take refuge in you rejoice;
let them ever sing for joy.
Spread your protection over them,
so that those who love your name may exult in you.
For you bless the righteous, O Lord;
you cover them with favor as with a shield.
Psalm 5: 11-12 NRSV
At the end of verse 5, the Psalmist describes the Lord’s care for His people. He uses the word-picture of God as a refuge, which is found elsewhere in scripture (Psalm 46).
Yet the imagery here suggests something more animated and active than a static and cold stone fortress. The Psalmist uses an active verb, “Spread”, as he prays to the Lord for protection from his enemies.
It is almost as if God’s relationship to his people is that of a bird to her young. Although comparatively small and vulnerable, the fledglings find comfort and shelter from the bitter winds under the wings of their mother bird.
A number of verses in the bible portray the strength of an eagle. It is strong and swift, and has an enormous amount of power. To watch an eagle is a magnificent experience. Yet, an eagle will also shelter its young.
Deuteronomy 32:11 says this, “like an eagle that stirs up its nest and hovers over its young, that spreads its wings to catch them and carries them aloft”
Whenever we feel battered by storms, and assaulted by challenges in the world, we can always turn to the Lord for comfort, for protection, and for love. May we “sing for joy” over the refuge we find under the wings of the Almighty.
Prayer
Lord of strength and power, You soar over my life, and watch me with the eyes of an eagle, seeing everything and missing nothing. Forgive me when I think I can do things without your tender care. Remind me to seek your shelter, and help me to grow to be wise and strong in you.
With a heart of thankfulness, I pray this prayer in the name of Your Son, and my Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen
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