“He that dwells in the Secret Place of the Most High shall abide under the Shadow of the Almighty.”
Psalm 91:1
Truly, the “Secret of soul-serenity” is found in God’s “Hiding Place” (Ps. 32:7).
How sweet the joys of childhood days, when we were carefree and could lie down in fields of clover, watching puffy clouds overhead and seeing faces and exotic creatures in their formation. And, sometimes we’d engage in games of hide-and-seek, where the one seeking would bow his head, close his head and count to 100, while the others would run and hide.
If you did, did you have a favorite “hiding place”—that special, secluded place so hidden from view that even those passing nearby would miss it if they weren’t looking for it? If so, that’s somewhat the picture being described in a most beautiful way in today’s Manna.
As the psalmist said, “God is our Refuge and Strength—a very present Help in trouble” (Ps. 46:1). He’s the Shelter from the storm. . .the Shadow from oppressive, withering heat. . .the One to Whom we can run when danger draws near. . .knowing He’ll gather us into His loving arms even as a mother hen gathers her chicks under her wings when alarmed (Mt. 23:37).
But, this is no common place—this “Secret Place of the Most High.”
It’s no bus stop on the corner where folks await their ride, reading the latest headlines or engaging in the latest gossip.
No, it’s a “Secret Place” known only to those who know the Shepherd and have “tasted and seen that the Lord is good and gracious” (Ps. 34:8; I Pet. 2:3). And, the whole reason for abiding there is for sweet communion with the Risen Lord as He warms us by His Love and feeds us with His Word.
Do you know this “Secret Place,” dear Pilgrim?
Do you “dwell there and abide in the Shadow of the Almighty”?
If so, even now there’s a quickening in your spirit as you give thanks for Christ, your Rock and Refuge; if not, do not rest until there is.
“For thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: In returning (repenting) and rest shall you be saved; in quietness and confidence shall be your strength. . .” (Is. 30:15a). The two always go hand-in-hand, for the Battle continually rages (Rom. 7:7-24); yet, the Spirit gives us reprieve as we “walk in Him” (Rom. 8:1), “abide in Him” (Jn. 15:1-7) and stay “yoked to Him” (Mt. 11:28-30). Amen and amen.
January 14, 2012
