There is a subtle lesson learned in geography when it comes to rest and safety with God. God tells us that the environment, atmosphere, and location need to be ordered to find rest. He directs us to the locations where we may find rest in close proximity.

Psalm 91 reminds us of this in verse 1: Those who live in the shelter (location) will find rest in the shadow (proximity). In order to be affected by a shadow, a person needs to be near enough to the object providing it. We see the same in verse 4: "He will cover you with his feathers," like a mother bird with her baby tucked into her bosom (location) and shelter you with his wings (proximity).

Think about when you feel safe, protected, comforted, unafraid and shielded. Do you associate those feelings with being rested? In these places, it’s easy to focus on God because you no longer have to defend yourself or “bat away the arrows.” The psalmist tells us that in this communion with God, we find rest, protection and restoration. Proximity to God restores us. So… take a breath, draw near, and be restored.

Application

In the next week, pay attention to where you feel safe, protected and comforted. Maybe it's a time of day or a place in your house. Maybe it's a walk in nature. Read through Psalm 91 and ask God to make these places apparent to you. Go there and practice rest.

Go Deeper Resources

• Explore what it means to “dwell in the shelter of the Most High” in our everyday lives by reading/listening to theologian John Piper’s Desiring God on Psalm 91.
• Gain a greater understanding of the Psalms through The Bible Project.
• Watch or listen to Tim Keller’s meditation on Psalm 91.