"Don't forget your umbrellas," mother would call out on blustery days, prompting my brothers and me to pick up our paces, for it was a long walk to school whenever we missed our bus. Then, with a final once-over, mother would kiss us goodbye, and everyone would giggle as my brothers squirmed, far too embarrassed to admit that they adored her open signs of affection. Our daily routine filled me with a wonderful sense of security. And my heart overflowed with gratitude as we waited at the bus stop, snug and dry, underneath our oversized umbrellas.

Closing my eyes, I pictured God faithfully protecting me. My umbrella was my refuge in the shadow of His wings. I could hear my mother's voice reciting, "He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection." (Psalm 91:4 NLT)

No matter how stormy the weather or what was happening in the world outside, my mother and father trusted in God's sovereignty and perfect fatherly care. They taught us that God's commandments were like an invisible shield or umbrella. Just as each mother hen instinctively protects her chicks by gathering them under her wings, our parents knew that nothing in all creation would be able to separate their family from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Psalm 36:7 – How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings. (ESV)

Our heavenly Father is not a fair-weather friend who shows up only for the good times. As the protector of His children, He literally has our back and watches over us all the time. Therefore, whenever we face stormy weather, let us call out His name — He will be there! We never need to walk alone.

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank You for protecting us, our children, and our grandchildren emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Father, create in us a pure heart and renew within us a steadfast spirit. Thank You for Your promise that You will cover us with Your feathers and shelter us with Your wings. Thank You that Your faithful promises are our armour and protection. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share on Facebook

About the author:

Lois Macdonald <loismacs5@gmail.com>
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Send your feedback to the author