You Will Find Refuge

“…and under his wings you will find refuge.” Psalm 91:4

Lately I have been soaking in Psalm 91. When my heart is anxious and I find myself worrying, verse 4 sticks out to me especially. I love the direct words “YOU WILL” and how it is such a clear promise to those who seek refuge “in the shelter of the Most High.” (v.1) “YOU WILL find refuge under his wings!”

I grew up going on vacation with my parents in northern Minnesota in bald eagle country, and when I read the word “under his wings,” I can see in my mind the bald eagle nests in trees towering over the lake. It is so interesting that God paints a picture of himself as the parent bird, and that we are the helpless young that he is protecting under his wings. The parent bird can see for miles from their perspective as they protect their young which is so different from the limited perspective that I have. It comforts my soul to know that God is big enough to see what is going on everywhere, yet he invites me to find comfort in himself.

I also think about how quickly I find myself looking for refuge, or comfort, in things other than
God. Lord, give me grace to look to you and not to the things that ultimately will not satisfy me! The end of this psalm (v. 15-16) continues with more promises to us – and specifically promises about God satisfying us:

“When he calls to me, I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble;
I will recuse him and honor him.
With long life [probably means eternal life] I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”