While gathered to listen, pray and worship in our new ministry space, a bald-headed eagle, perched high on a branch beside the edge of Lake Idlewild, kept watch over us for the entire evening. She gave us a compelling visual of God’s attentive gaze and loving protection, and under whose wings we find refuge. Pause and savor the images which the Holy Spirit brings to mind as you dwell in this portion of text from Psalm 18.
Psalm 18:30-36 (NIV)
30 As for God, his way is perfect:
The Lord’s word is flawless;
he shields all who take refuge in him.
31 For who is God besides the Lord?
And who is the Rock except our God?
32 It is God who arms me with strength
and keeps my way secure.
33 He makes my feet like the feet of a deer;
he causes me to stand on the heights.
34 He trains my hands for battle;
my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
35 You make your saving help my shield,
and your right hand sustains me;
your help has made me great.
36 You provide a broad path for my feet,
so that my ankles do not give way.
For Prayer and Reflection:
What word, phrase, image or sense stood out to you as you listened to the text? Ponder this with Jesus.
What are some ways you experience God as your saving help? What does this mean to you?
How would you like God to “broaden your path”? What is it that you need? What do you hope for? Bring this into your conversation and prayer with God.