Umbrellas

We are always looking for security. We buy the most reliable products. We are told to wear our seat belts (some follow this rule more than others). We invest in life, car and medical insurance. And of course, when it rains, we find it most logical to bring an umbrella.

What is the purpose of an umbrella? According to Dictionary.com, it is something that covers or protects from above. So what's the significance? Take a second and imagine God as an umbrella.


Our umbrella.
Our cover.
And our protection.
Pretty cool, eh?
In what ways is God our umbrella?



He shields us:
It says in 2 Samuel 22:31-33, "As for God, His way is blameless; the word of the Lord is tested; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him. For who is God, besides the Lord? And who is a rock besides our God? God is my strong fortress; and He sets the blameless in His way."

He gives us shelter:
In Psalm 61:3-4, David cries out, "For You have been a refuge for me, a tower of strength against the enemy. Let me dwell in Your tent forever; Let me take refuge in the shelter of Your wings." During this time, tents were their homes. To dwell in God's tent forever meant to live in His house forever. God gives us shelter by allowing us to hide in Him.

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!" - Psalm 91:1-2
Ever seen an umbrella used at the beach? Its purpose is to provide shade. The shadow protects from the heat of the sun, especially in the desert. So to abide in the "shadow of the Almighty," meant that the Lord protected His people.

He protects us:
2 Thessalonians 3:3 says, "But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one." Not only does he strengthen and protect us, but he provides a safe-keeping.

"And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:7

God makes a pretty sweet umbrella, doesn't He? When we carry around this "God Umbrella," we feel safe and secure. But I think we count too much on umbrellas to keep us dry.

We expect that all we have to do is hold up that piece of fabric, and we will be fine. Well if you are going to go out into a thunderstorm, I promise that you'll get a lot more wet than you wanted. Isn't that how we treat God? We stick ourselves in situations that we aren't supposed to be in, and expect to come out dry. That's not how it's supposed to work. God wants to be our umbrella, not our safety net.

"Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm." Ephesians 6:13

Use your "God Umbrella" as a shield, shelter and protection. God might be our home security system, but that doesn't mean you can invite the thieves in.