Daily life is often filled with unexpected dangers. We never know what awaits us each day. The Psalmist understands this but finds security and comfort as well as stability in his walk with God. When he struggled with fear and insecurity, the Psalmist sang “Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings!” He knew as long as he stayed close to God, he would remain at peace and be able to live confidently.
Jesus taught this truth to the people of His day; He longed to gather them to Himself even as a mother hen gathers her chicks under her wings when there is an impending storm. The human tragedy then and still today is that people are generally unwilling to accept His gracious offer (Luke 13:34).
The author of a more modern Psalm (Hymn), “Under His Wings”, was an ex-Pastor named William Cushing. After losing the power of speech he was broken in spirit. He cried out to God. God answered by giving him the gift of writing. He wrote over 300 gospel hymns. Many of his hymns continue to appear in hymnals around the world. It’s been a comfort to millions of believers for over 100 years.
Under His wings I am safely abiding; tho the night deepens and tempests are wild, still I can trust Him; I know He will keep me; He has redeemed me, and I am His child.
Under His wings, what a refuge in sorrow! How the heart yearningly turns to His rest! Often when earth has no balm for my healing, there I find comfort and there I am blest.
Under His wings, O what precious enjoyment! There will I hide till life’s trials are o’er; sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me; resting in Jesus I’m safe evermore.
Refrain: Under His wings, under His wings, who from His love can sever? Under His wings my soul shall abide, safely abide forever.
Chuck
But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. I praise God for what he has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? (Psalm 56:3-4)