Taking Shelter

Some years ago I worked as a cleaner at a manufacturing jeweller. What started out as a favour to a friend turned into a task I actually enjoyed – once I got past dragging myself out of bed at the crack of dawn! The methodical work was a good time for prayer and reflection.

The shop floor of the jeweller’s was cushioned by a luxuriously rich, thickly-piled royal blue carpet, above which hung cabinets of stunning and expensive jewellery. The carpet was worn quite flat in the traffic areas, but under the hanging cabinets it was as thick and beautiful as when it was first laid; the pile not bent but standing straight and proud.

Every time I ran my vacuum over that gorgeous carpet, I was reminded of what an analogy to life it was. Unless we spend our existence in an utterly sheltered environment, we can quickly become worn down and worn out by life’s vicissitudes. Over time people and circumstances can trample upon our tender hearts, until we feel flat, or even hardened. What happened to that beautiful, God-given joy for living?

Jesus says to us:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”  (Matt. 11:28).

When God’s people are worn out, He invites us to rest in Him, and in Him we will find refreshment for our souls. But Psalm 91 goes further:

“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust”  (vv.1-2).

When it comes to finding rest in God, there is no time limit – He does not allow us in to that place of peace, only to toss us out again later! As long as God is our refuge and our fortress – as long as we trust Him to care for us – then peace, rest and renewal are ours – all day, every day, no matter what comes.

If you are feeling worn out, take a moment today to step once again under the shelter of His wings and find the refreshment that only God can provide. You can stay as long as you like.

Rachel Koopmans