Dave and I enjoy spending the evenings on our patio. It’s a busy place.
We watch the hummingbirds scooting in for their last drinks of the day. Flittering here and there at high speed. Up to a tree branch, down to the feeder and in just a few minutes they are gone.
About this time we hear the cooing of the doves who are roosting in the mesquite trees. Then comes the lone call of the quail. Quail are very vocal birds and Dave and I will make up conversations when we hear them calling at dusk.
“Hurry up now. It’s almost bedtime. Don’t delay, you need to come in before it gets dark.” And then there will always be an annoyed chatter…”But I don’t want to go to bed yet, can’t I stay out just a little longer”.
It’s amazing the natural instinct God has gifted to the different animals. They all have a desire to protect their young, keeping them safe from danger.
Is it no wonder that the Scriptures talk about us being safe, under the wings of Almighty God?
“Your love is a treasure, and everyone finds shelter in the shadow of your wings. 8 You give your guests a feast in your house, and you serve a tasty drink that flows like a river.” Psalm 36:7-8 CEV
“God will save you from hidden dangers and from deadly diseases. 4 You can go to him for protection. He will cover you like a bird spreading its wings over its babies. You can trust him to surround and protect you like a shield.” Psalm 91:3-4 ERV
We don’t need to beg the Lord for protection. He is the One making the offer. He wants us to come to Him for help and safety. He has given us an open invitation to utilize His protection.
Shortly before His death, Jesus was on a hilltop looking over Jerusalem and He was heart broken. He was praying for the Jewish people and their leaders. He had been preaching and teaching for three years and still there were many who refused to accept His message, a message of salvation and protection.
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem! You kill the prophets. You stone to death those that God has sent to you. Many, many times I wanted to help your people. I wanted to gather them together as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings. But you did not let me. ” Matthew 23:37 ERV
Do you hear the heart ache? I wanted to gather you in, under my wings, but you wouldn’t let me.
“With Jesus as our high priest, we can feel free to come before God’s throne where there is grace. There we receive mercy and kindness to help us when we need it.” Hebrews 4:16 ERV
Coming to the Lord for help in times of trouble isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s an action of wisdom. Come to the Lord’s safe place!