Are you abiding under the shadow of the Most High? I was on a flight recently, and we were flying over the mountains, just below the clouds. I could see the ground, and there were these places on the ground that were dark, and I realized I was seeing the shadows from the clouds. It was an intriguing sight to see a shadow from above. A shadow is defined as an inseparable companion or follower or a dominant influence. Being under the shadow of God means we are inseparable from Him and are being influenced by His presence.
Psalm 91 encourages us with these words: “When you abide under the shadow of Shaddai, you are hidden in the strength of God Most High. He’s the hope that holds me and the stronghold to shelter me, the only God for me, and my great confidence. When we live our lives within the shadow of God Most High, our secret hiding place, we will always be shielded from harm. How then could evil prevail against us or disease infect us?” ~TPT~
Are you abiding under His shadow? Are you sticking close enough to Him that His shadow covers you and His presence influences you? How do you get that close?
Here are three ways to stay in His Shadow:
1. Dwell in His Presence through Prayer and Worship
- Scripture: He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. (Psalm 91:1)
Make daily prayer and worship a priority. Just as you would spend time with someone you love to build a relationship, spend time with God to dwell in His presence. Create a routine for morning prayers, meditate on God’s Word, and take moments throughout the day to offer praise. By doing this, you stay connected to His power and protection, experiencing peace in His “shadow.”
2. Trust in God’s Protection during Trials
- Scripture: “The Lord is your keeper; The Lord is your shade on your right hand.” (Psalm 121:5)
When facing life’s challenges, choose to place your trust in God’s protection instead of relying solely on your own strength. Meditate on His promises and declare them over your situation. During difficult moments, pray for strength and believe that God is your shield. This mindset keeps you under His shadow, confident in His sovereignty.
3. Walk in Obedience to God’s Word
- Scripture: “He who keeps and obeys the commandment [of the Lord] keeps (guards) his own life,
But he who is careless of his ways and conduct will die.” (Proverbs 19:16)
Staying in God’s shadow requires obedience to His Word. When you follow His commandments and live according to His principles, you remain in close fellowship with Him. Make intentional choices to align your life with scripture. When tempted to stray or disobey, remind yourself of God’s promise to be your protector as you walk in His ways.
By dwelling in His presence, trusting in His protection, and walking in obedience, you place yourself under the shadow of the Most High. You are protected and in His constant care. Make reading Psalm 91 a priority. Memorize it so you can confess it and pray it. Take these scriptures and turn them into daily affirmations. Keep Him close!