You and I are capable of amazing things—when we let ourselves dream, search out and discover wise means of reaching our dreams, and focus and commit to building ourselves brick by brick, day by day. God has created us with limitless potential, and you’re used to reading words here that will challenge and encourage you to take action today toward growth and pursuit of your goals. As you go forth on your journey, however, you cannot expect success going it alone. It is only when we find our particular purpose for which we have been created and plug into God’s agenda that we can truly thrive.
Psalm 63
7For You have been my help,
And in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.
8My soul clings to You;
Your right hand upholds me.
9But those who seek my life to destroy it,
Will go into the depths of the earth.
10They will be delivered over to the power of the sword;
They will be a prey for foxes.
11But the king will rejoice in God;
Everyone who swears by Him will glory,
For the mouths of those who speak lies will be stopped.
Conveying the Truth
We are given a great many pictures in the Bible which convey the way God relates to us. In v7 and v8 of this Psalm, we see two examples: The shadow of God’s wings and God’s right hand. Although God has neither wings nor hands, these metaphors give us a very clear and powerful idea of what God is like and how we are meant to live. We are our strongest not when we work hardest and rely most on ourselves, but rather when we recognize our frailty and seek refuge in God.
The Shadow of His Wings
The picture of living in the shadow of God’s wings gives the thought of a powerful and majestic bird of prey. I think of an eagle soaring high above the ground, completely out of reach of those who may wish to harm him. At any moment, the eagle can sweep down with his powerful talons and reign down with a fierce attack on whomever he wills. As one loved by God, I know than when I rest in the shadow of His wings, I need fear no man. The shadow means that although I can’t touch Him, I know he is there without a doubt. He is above me, ready and able to protect and defend me from any who would oppose His will and my obedience.
God’s Right Hand
Being upheld by God’s right hand conveys many similar ideas. When I think of how easily I can be overcome by others or by life’s circumstances, I am encouraged by remembering that God’s strength is something I can lay hold of. When in my humanness I would certainly fail, I know in that moment that I can rely on Christ to give me His strength. It may be a fight against temptation, or the tenacity to hold my resolve in a tese situation, or even to withstand persecution. In these times, I have confidence, knowing that when my strength fails, God will provide all the strength I need.
His Glory
So much more could be said, how many volumes could be filled with this glorious truth! God’s power and strength are infinite, and He is anxious to grant them to any who will follow after Him, seek His will, and have the faith to live it out each day. As we work with the tools we have to grow in our own wisdom, strength, and capability, let us never forget that One who is infinitely stronger than we could ever be or imagine stands with us. As he shows Himself powerful and faithful, we will discover new heights achievable only through His divine work, for His glory and our good!