A Secret Hiding Place
Living in the Secret Place: Finding Strength and Security in God
In our continuing series about identity, we have unpacked profound truths regarding who we are in Christ. We are the chosen of God, royal priests, a holy nation, and His special possession. Now to facilitate further our understanding of our identity as sons of God, we are hidden with Christ in God.
Hidden with Christ in God
Colossians 3:1-4 reminds us that our lives are “…now hidden with Christ in God”. That preposition, 'in,' means to be concealed, safe in His presence. Just like when children play hide and seek, finding protection and security for comfort in our hiding places, we have a secret hiding place in God. Psalm 91 is a beautiful description of that place of refuge and protection where God Himself is our shelter and shield.
God, Our Refuge
The words of the psalmist in Psalm 91 assure us that when we dwell in the secret place of the Most High, we are hidden in His strength. God's massive arms wrap around us to protect us from harm. We should have no reason to fear demonic forces or darkness, for God sends His angels to defend us. It is not a guarantee against life's troubles but a guarantee of His presence and deliverance through every trial.
Living Under Confident Trust
The secret place is living a life in confident trust in God, the Most High, the Possessor of heaven and earth, and the Almighty with unlimited power. Man's safety or security does not reside in his strength, people, or material resources but in God alone. Psalm 27:5 says, "In the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling.".
God, Our Homemaker
God is not some hotel manager that we check in with once a week; He's a homemaker looking to dwell with us daily. James 4:8 says, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." As we read our Bible, pray, and worship, we are abiding in His presence and dwelling in the secret place. From this closeness comes tremendous confidence and total security in God Himself.
Divine Protection and Assurance
The protection by God is described in several ways in Psalm 91. He shields us from hidden traps; He hides us under His wings and secures us at all times. As the watchman is vigilant and fearless, God watches over us continuously. His angels protect us from vulnerabilities and dangers and keep us assured that we are secure in His keeping.
Dedication and Love
The last verses of Psalm 91 outline God's promises for those who dwell in a life of devotion to Him. God repeatedly says, "I will protect you, answer you, deliver you, and satisfy you." And in response to His promises, we are to say, "I will love You greatly, acknowledge Your name, and continuously call on You." When trouble comes, we can literally be saying the name of Jesus with confidence, as He has said He would answer.
Conclusion
For in the secret place of God, there is a life of strength and protection, a life of divine assurance. It deals with the abiding life, the deep relationship one carries with God, trusting in His promises. Let us draw near to God, get under the covering of His wings, and taste the fullness of His salvation.
This blog is based on a sermon delivered by Pastor Philip Lyndon-Jones on November 10, 2024, at the City Church Swansea