Secure in Master’s Plans

My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.
Isaiah 32:18 (NIV)

Our spiritual mentor (whom we lovingly call Uncle Benji) is someone who loves nature. In addition to his teaching and counseling ministries, he also has a nature ministry – a beautiful garden with lovely plants and some easy to grow vegetables, all of which he lovingly tends to, as well as a collection of beautiful love birds. When he got the love birds, with lot of care, he built them a lovely spacious home – a big cage constructed with mesh wire, fixed carefully into precisely cut frames, and placed at a right level of elevation. He diligently planned for aviary doors, food and water bowls, perches, and also provided them with clay nest boxes/pots as rooms within the home. And there it is – a sturdy, secure home for the birds, safe from rain and the scorching sun, and placed near to the lovely garden full of colorful blooms. One day when we visited his home, we found one cat climbing the wall next to the cage, and after observing the cage for some time, it slowly climbed on the top of the cage and lied down there. Poor birds - one could imagine their plight to see the cat slowly climbing the wall next to them, watching them - its potential prey, and then resting on their very own roof, plotting and waiting. But to our surprise, the birds were happily chirping away, without a care in the world. They knew that the home the master had built for them is strong and secure; and he has also safely secured the door to protect it from the dangers of the world outside. And because of this they could sing freely, perch away gladly, and ignore the stare of the enemy, knowing fully well that they are very much within the father’s watchful glance and safe plans.

Even in our lives, we sometimes face the glaring stares of the enemy, who is lying in wait around for an unguarded moment. A seemingly forgivable offense will grow roots of resentment if not taken care, a small annoyance can turn into full blown rage if left unguarded, a moment of hurt transforming into a deep valley of depression if waved aside ruefully – instances are many. However, a praying soul can rest peacefully – because the Father has safely secured every door, and placed us in the safety of His heart’s glance. The hands that built the home had built with such excellence that no enemy can penetrate or break into. Be at ease my soul and remain in the shadow of His wings, for that’s your safe home.

As His Spirit is poured upon from high,
On my soul that was full of heavy sigh
Its deserts become a vast fertile field
Where his righteousness lives and yield,
Quietness and confidence, as a dream
As we sow the seeds by every stream,
And live in peaceful dwelling places,

Abounding in His love, and all the graces.

- Inspiration - Isaiah 32:15-20