Wings

What does your mind go to when someone says, “wings?” The results are amazing! Some people think — Barbeque. Some think HOT BARBEQUE!

Other thought processes trace to organizations who have “wings” in their name. Still others think of eagles, or birds known for the broad span, beautiful feathers, or protective covering of their wings.

Imagery is a very useful tool in writing or speaking. Using something we can each relate to in illustrating a point is very helpful in not only getting the point across, but helping others to retain it’s valuable information.

In Bible days, birds were much more prevalent than Barbeque or “winged” organizations . . . And so the imagery of wings found in scripture usually brought to mind what they had seen in the nature around them. Wings held a connotation of protection. The word “wings” brought the image of a mother hen protecting her chicks from a storm. Or that of an eagle—mounting high above the earth around him — off into the blue sky above.

The Presence of God was often likened to “wings,” and the beautiful imagery still holds much encouragement for us today.

In Psalm 61:4 we read, “I will abide in Your tabernacle forever; I will trust in the shelter of your wings. The ultimate trust of our life has found a resting place. Sheltered safely under the Almighty wings of God.

Psalm 17:8 brings this request to the Lord, “Keep me as the apple of Your eye; Hide me under the shadow of Your wings . . .” A hiding place when circumstances threaten to be “too much.” A place to hide — to be comforted and loved.

Boaz saw in Ruth that simple trust when he said, “The Lord repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.” (Ruth 2:12)

Not only do we find wings to be our refuge and our shelter, but in Isaiah 40:31, we find an imagery of rising above. “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary, they shall walk, and not faint.” (Is. 40:31)

“Mounting up” higher than the things of earth requires a waiting on God. As we “rest” in the shelter of His wings, waiting on Him for direction, guidance, clarity to the path, His strength becomes ours and we find ourselves mounting — up, up, and away from the cares and the burdens and pressures, into the mighty Presence of an Almighty God. And He . . . HE makes ALL THE DIFFERENCE!

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.” (Psalm 36:7)