A Bible teacher talked about decorating the entrance to her classroom and the hallway leading to it. “I want it to look like a fortress so that when the kids enter, they will feel they are absolutely safe. No matter what they are dealing with at home or with their peers, they can be assured of safety here. When they come in, they will be built up to leave later and face the world.”
In a similar way, God’s people felt safe and protected in Jerusalem. The city was surrounded by mountains which the psalm writer saw as a picture of God reaching out to protect and shelter His own. Perhaps where you live there are mountains, hills, a forest, or something that surrounds and gives a feeling of being sheltered.
We won’t be able to avoid the experiences of life that buffet us and leave us feeling exposed or alone. Stress and pain will be part of life. But the Lord who loves us has placed us in a protected valley, surrounding us with His strong arms of love. Let the storms come while we are sheltered in His safe embrace.