He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.

Psalm 91:1

There’s nothing like finding shade on a hot summer day. It keeps you safe from the sun, it cools you down and you feel more relaxed. This is the same kind of comfort we can find in the Lord. He can provide us with shelter when we need it and safety from troubles that rise up among us. 

The relief of hiding away from the sun can not only soothe our body, but our mind as well. Staying out in the heat all day wears you out physically and mentally. In the physical sense, harmful UV rays from the sun cause your skin to burn and eventually give you skin cancer if not treated properly. The sweat from the heat makes you feel wet and sticky, and just generally unpleasant. There are also studies that overbearing heat can make you mentally feel exhausted, affect your mood, and even cause depression.

Shade can shield us from the side effects of too much heat. In a greater way, God can keep us safe from the effects of sin and temptation if we abide in him. The implication of this passage in Psalms is that God is superior to all other powers or idols. There is no safer shelter than what the Most High provides. 

Dwelling in his presence makes us feel safe and relaxed. God has different ways to show his presence in our lives, including worshiping with other believers, using his Word, practicing meditation through prayer, and serving alongside a Christian community. Abiding in the shadow of the Almighty means a consistent relationship with the Lord. Being close to God is what keeps us safe from evil. When we trust in God, he will strengthen us and enable us to follow His Word.

Jesus provided us with a way to dwell with him through his death and resurrection. When our presence with God was diminished through the fall of man, God gave us the gift of salvation through his son, Jesus Christ. Our relationship with him allows us to find comfort and shelter from the perils of evil. Satan’s temptations can try to burn us, but the welcoming arms of Jesus gives us hope and peace.

This week, pray about how you can find ways to abide in Christ. Get to know God through your relationship with him and feel his comforting presence.