14 Days to PeaceSample

 The image of the “wings” of God references more than the picture of an eagle hovering over its young. It’s the image of the “throne of grace.” 

As you pray Psalm 91 over your life and your loved ones, you can be assured that “under his wings you will find refuge” (v.4). It’s the same image the psalmist declares in Psalm 57:1 “… in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge.” 

What is so reassuring about the “shadow of His wings?" 

In the inmost chamber of the tabernacle rested the ark of the covenant. It was, per God’s specific instructions, covered with a solid gold lid upon which sat two golden cherubim with outstretched wings. 

There, between those cherubim, once a year, the High Priest would offer a blood sacrifice on behalf of the sins of the people. And, there, on that blood-soaked “mercy seat,” God would make Himself manifest. 

It was a priestly act repeated on the Day of Atonement for centuries until Christ, the true Great High Priest, came and offered His own blood on our behalf. Jesus was the Lamb that takes away the sin of the world. 

To be “in the shadow of His wings” is to be under the full, final, finished work of Jesus Christ. To be “in the shadow of His wings” means to be under the blood of Christ. The writer of Hebrews called that “mercy seat” the “throne of grace” saying, “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Heb 4:16, ESV). 

In these uncertain times, we will not find safety in our own righteousness but in the righteousness of Jesus Christ. In Christ, you are welcomed into the holy of holies—into the very shadow of His wings. You are forever safe under the blood of Jesus. And that’s the Gospel!

Questions for Reflection:

1) What, if anything, hinders you from approaching the throne of grace? Fear? Uncertainty? Shame?

2) How would your answer to Question 1 change if you fully believed you live in the shadow of His wings, under the blood of Christ?

3) Read the rest of Psalm 57. Note where the psalmist writes “I will give thanks” and “be exalted, O God,” even amidst trials and tribulations. Take a few moments to write down all the things you are thankful for. Praise the Lord even in the uncertainty.