I grow best when I visualize something tangible about God–something I can flesh out with touch, sight, sound, smell, and even taste. Perhaps this is why the image of myself seated at a royal table with Jesus (from Ephesians 2:6) renewed my mind so deeply and ushered in great personal transformation.
I’ve been thinking so much about God’s guarding presence in my life, and this morning, I considered feathers. I love reading Psalm 91:4: “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” Under those feathers, I feel the soft snuggling. I visualize the great fluffiness. I think about how dark and quiet it is and how still and peaceful. Yes, I need feathers today.
But later, I think of God’s guarding presence as my fortress. I think of Psalm 46:11: “The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” In the Hebrew, that word “fortress” means a high, secure, retreat or stronghold. It’s a refuge high above danger. I build my fortress in my mind. I visualize myself inside the strongest building of stone. But it’s bright and high and beautiful because Jesus is there holding me high above any danger, insecurity, or trouble. Yes, I need a fortress today.
Even later, I think of a Father. I think of everything I can imagine a great father could ever be, and I realize all of these things are true about God. Jesus says about us that “no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand” in John 10:29. I think of how Jesus says my Heavenly Father knows exactly what I need (Matthew 6:23). I picture His gracious hand and His great throne that I can approach with confidence (Hebrews 4:16). I picture how this feels and what I see. Today, I need a Father.
Feathers, fortress, and Father: Picturing these images helps me know Him better.