Finding Shelter in the Shadow of the Most High: A Modern-Day Reflection on Psalm 91

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” – Psalm 91:1

When crisis strikes, it is often too late to prepare. This truth resonates deeply as we reflect on the challenges faced in Israel’s Golan Heights and in communities worldwide reeling from natural disasters (wildfires and hurricanes) and antisemitic attacks.

But what does it mean to dwell in God’s shelter today? How can we prepare spiritually and physically for the storms of life?

The Shelter in Kibbutz Shamir: Faith in Action

Nestled in the western slopes of the Golan Heights, the ancient region of Bashan, Kibbutz Shamir is a testament to resilience. Known for its breathtaking views of Mount Hermon and the Hula Valley, this idyllic location belies the ever-present threat of attack.

In September, Hezbollah launched 30 rockets at Kibbutz Shamir, highlighting the urgent need for physical shelters. Barry Siegal, our partner on the ground with Vision for Israel, underscored the importance of preparation: “When crisis comes, it’s too late to prepare. Better to have everything ready for both now and in the future.”

In response, Christian Women For Israel, supported by Modern-Day Esthers, provided a bomb shelter—number 387—for Kibbutz Shamir. This $14,000 structure is more than a fortified refuge; it’s a testament to God’s provision through His people. It reflects the love, care, and obedience of those who answered God’s call to protect His people.

For the residents of Shamir, this shelter is the difference between life and death. The Golan Heights is not only a strategic military location but also a place where faith and survival intersect. The name Arrow of Bashan, given to Israel’s largest air campaign since 1973, ties modern defense efforts to its biblical heritage of strength and divine protection. Learn more about the significance of this name here.

Shelter for the Soul

The physical shelter at Shamir reminds us how often we take spiritual shelter for granted. Imagine facing the relentless attacks of the enemy without God’s provision and protection. Life’s storms—seen and unseen—would leave us vulnerable.

Psalm 91 offers us this assurance: “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart” (Psalm 91:4). This isn’t a poetic metaphor; it’s the literal Word of God—a declaration of His unfailing promises to His people.

Just as the Golan Heights is a physical fortress, God is our spiritual refuge. But His protection doesn’t mean we’ll never face hardship. Even Jesus endured suffering despite His perfect trust in the Father. Psalm 91 reminds us that God’s shelter isn’t a promise to escape trials but an assurance of His presence through them.

Lessons from Hurricane Survivors: Faith Amidst the Rubble

Here stateside in Western North Carolina, survivors of Hurricane Helene faced freezing temperatures and devastating loss. Renee Autrey, forced to sleep in a tent after the storm, clung to her faith: “I’ve cried many nights, praying to God just to get through this.”

Volunteers like Danny Wolf and Nicole Griffin provided physical shelters—hot tents and firewood—to those in need. Their efforts were a lifeline for people like Renee, who experienced God’s provision through the compassion of others.

As Modern-Day Esthers, we are called to stand in the gap—providing physical shelters for the vulnerable and spiritual refuge for the weary.

• Pray: Dwell daily in God’s presence, seeking His guidance and strength.
• Act: Support efforts like bomb shelters in Israel or hot tents for disaster victims.
• Reflect: How can you be a refuge for those around you, living out the promise of Psalm 91?

The Golan Heights, both historically and today, reminds us of the significance of preparation—physical and spiritual. Just as Israel fortifies its borders, we must fortify our faith, dwelling in the shelter of the Most High.

The shelter of the Most High isn’t just a place; it’s a lifestyle of trust, preparation, and service. Let us prepare both our hearts and our hands to serve, ensuring that God’s promises are lived out in our lives and the lives of those we touch.