The Shadow of God’s Wings

ONE of David’s favorite symbolic expressions was the word-picture of sitting in the shadow of God’s wings (Psalm 63:7; compare Psalms 17:8; 36:7; 57:1; 61:4; and 91:4). The wings of a bird were a symbol of protection, defense, and refuge. For example, faced with a forest or range fire, a mother grouse or prairie chicken would gather her chicks together under her wings, settle down, and let the flames sweep over her. If necessary, she would die in order to save them. After the fire, the chicks would crawl out from under their mother’s burnt body. They enjoyed life and safety because of her sacrificial devotion.

In a similar way, David was shielded from numerous attempts on his life, especially by King Saul and later by his own son Absalom. David knew by experience what it meant to have nothing standing between him and death but the gracious protection of God.

The Lord still offers the same refuge and protection today. For one thing, having voluntarily died on the Cross for our sins, He can deliver us from the penalty of sin (Romans 5:6–10). Furthermore, He watches over His children with diligent care (Hebrews 13:5–6; 1 Peter 5:7). Thus we can rely on a God who loves us and acts on our behalf when we cannot help ourselves.

Courtesy of Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Commentary
Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the New King James Version®, NKJV © 1982 by Thomas Nelson.
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