August 14

But in the depths of my heart I truly know that you, Yahweh, have become my Shield; You take me and surround me with yourself.  Your glory covers me continually.  You lift my head when I bow in shame. I have cried to you, Yahweh, from your holy presence. You send me a Father’s help”. Psalm 3:3-4 (TPT)

There can be a tendency when missteps or mistakes are made, to point out the faults or flaws of others—sometimes with good intentions to make their life (or ours!) easier. However, that doesn’t always go so well. We may also to be very aware of our own shortcomings, usually more so than that of others—which can be good for growing when covered in grace—but not so helpful when it leads to condemnation or shame.

Our Father’s love is the opposite of accusations or reproach. In the middle of our messes, He comes instead, not to expose, but to cover. Not to put us down, but to lift us up. Oh, praise God, cherished one, that it could be so!

Throw off the robes of sorrow and shame, for you are covered now in something far greater! The Lord Himself will surround you continually: His goodness and His glory your wrap-around presence and shield. Decked out in delight, you are perfectly clothed as a child of the King! Brilliant and beautiful—lovely in every way. Just exactly as your Saviour imagined, for wonderfully, beautifully, and marvellously made, you!

Prayer:

Oh, Jesus, what a beautiful prayer and plea this is—that You would come, my Pleasure and my Portion, and surround me with Your wrap-around presence—allowing me to be hidden in You!

Father God, that I could be covered in Your redeeming love, hearing Your words of acceptance and affirmation, causing everything else to fade away in the light of Your glorious grace.  The sins of the past, the sorrow and the shame, all carried away from my life through Christ Jesus, so I would never be the same. Made holy, righteous, and new. Ransomed, healed, completely forgiven, deeply loved and cherished by You.

Thank you, glorious God, that it could be so. Thank You that day by day, and moment by moment, I am being loved, cared for, restored, and revived, as I hide my life in You.