He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91:1 NIV
When I worked as a counselor, I was taught that people have different basic needs that drive them. It was theorized that a person could be driven by the need for power, money, safety, comfort, recognition, or most likely a combination of the above in differing degrees.
If you knew what was motivating the person, you could help them meet their goals. In order to teach the theory to others, we had to look at ourselves to try and understand what our own drives were. I soon realized that a need for safety is all important for me, more than any of the others (although I have to admit that comfort was a close second).
When I am afraid, it is because I am afraid I am not safe. Something bad is going to happen to me. These are old, old messages deeply inscribed in my mind that I can trace back to childhood. One of my early prayers to God was to “help me not to be ascared.”
That childish prayer holds true now. With all the events in my life, it is easy for me to become fearful. I’d rather feel safe than have money. I’d rather feel safe than have power. I’d rather feel safe than have recognition. I would even choose safety over comfort.
It fascinates me that God’s word always has the answer. “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” That is supreme safety. There are many verses in Scripture about our finding safety. And it is always with God. It is ONLY with God. There is no place else that can promise what God promises us on a daily basis.
Part of the responsibility is ours … “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High …” It is my responsibility to seek that shelter and dwell there. If I do my part, God will do His: “… will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Could one ask for a safer place?
Father God, Thank you that you know us so intimately that you have provided everything that we need. All of our needs can be met in You. You give us the power of your name, You promise to provide for our needs, our safety is in You, You have provided your Holy Spirit, our comforter and encourager. Our recognition as a child of the Most High, can only be found in You. No matter what motivates us, the need can be found and met with You. You grant us security. You grant us significance. You grant us love. You are indeed, an awesome God. Amen and Amen, Lord. So be it!