A Lesson in Trust

November 16, 2009

By Rose McCormick Brandon

“He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust” (Psalm 91:4, KJV).

The mother goose nestled in a grassy slope by the rocky shore watching while her babies explored their new world. When her goslings tired of adventure, they waddled over and disappeared one by one under her wings. Snuggled in the warmth of Mama’s breast, they rested as if still cradled in the womb. They dozed, sheltered from the sun and wind. Tomorrow there would be more activity, but for now they needed rest.

Sometimes the world wearies us with its business of work, money and responsibilities. Like the goslings, we need a shelter and a place to rest. Several Scriptures compare our Lord to a bird. One of these is Psalm 57:1 — “In the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge.” Of this verse, Matthew Henry wrote, “Look which way we will on this earth, refuge fails, no help appears; but we may look for it from heaven.” Often no one but the Lord knows about our struggles with sin and temptation, our sorrow of heart, our loneliness and fears.

Under the wings of the Savior we confess our sins and find forgiveness. We cry out our sorrow and find comfort. Loneliness diminishes as we commune with Him.

God reveals His nature through His creation. Just as the birds lift their wings to offer their young a place of rest, He says to us, “Come. My sanctuary is open for you.”

Under His wings, under His wings,

Who from His love can sever?

Under His wings, my soul shall abide,

Safely abide forever.

(Ira Sankey)

— Rose McCormick Brandon writes personal experience essays, Bible studies, news articles, profiles and devotionals from her home in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada.