The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. Proverbs 18:10 NIV
Living in farm country has its perks – acres of pastures with grazing cattle, newborn colts, thousands upon thousands of fruit trees. Long windy roads leading farther away from the hustle and bustle; peaceful breezes blowing the wash hanging on the line.
Driving past a pasture, my eyes caught a sight – one lone oak tree in the corner of a vast piece of land and all the 20-30 head of steer were sheltered in the shadow of that tree. Many acres were available to graze, but they were in the shadow of the wide spreading tree, lying down, chewing their cud, enjoying the peaceful scene.
Isn’t that what we need as believers? The LORD is our strong tower, a place of shelter and respite. When we need to just be – we can run to Him and be safe. We can be relaxed and “chew our cud”, so to speak. When a cow chews, it does so because it is at rest and is contemplative of life. No stress, life is good, tummy is full and an opportunity to take the day in stride.
As a follower of Christ, we have the privilege of running to the shadow of our heavenly Father to not only experience His protection but to embrace His presence. No matter the size of the pasture, our home is in the shelter and we have full and immediate access to this precious place.
In the storm-tossed days of life, we may struggle to find our way because the land looms large. But know this – God never changes nor does He ever move from us. He is faithful (Hebrews 13:5, Psalm 18:25). He is our ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1) and our stay and Comforter (2 Corinthians 1:3). He leads us to peaceful streams (Psalm 23:2) so we can rest in Him.
Knowing these truths brings much comfort. Knowing God is for us and available at a moment’s notice is reassuring. He truly is our shelter, our shadow from the scorching heat of life and a place of refuge.
PRAYER
Father God, thank You for the word picture demonstrated in Creation with animals at rest under the shadow of a massive oak tree. What a visual we have as a reminder of Your Presence in our lives – and so much more meaningful because it is the God of the universe interacting and sheltering mankind. You are amazing God. And I thank You. AMEN
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