One of the biggest misconceptions people of our culture have about Christianity is that, once you’re saved, you will never again face trials or heartache here on earth. Perhaps this is partially due to the wishful thinking of those who believe it, but the fact of the matter is that we live in a society where this false message has gained the favor of many television ministers and pastors which are able to draw people into their so-called gospel by the thousands. Most of the time, these “converts” fall by the wayside only a short time later when they realize that the bed of roses they were promised has its fair share of thorns, and are thus turned against the true Gospel of salvation without ever having heard it.

You see, God doesn’t promise us care-free living or always-perfect circumstances. He never said that the Narrow Way would be easily traveled, or that the troubles of this life would suddenly vanish the moment we trust Him (John 16:33). No, but instead He offers us a place of refuge for those moments when we have hardly the strength to keep on going, and a place of grace and forgiveness and love wherein to find comfort even when all is well. Where can we find all these wonderful treasures? In the shadow the Almighty.

“How excellent is Thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Thy wings.”

               -Psalm 36:7

It is only when we find ourselves covered in the shadow the Almighty, fully arrayed and skilled in the whole armor of  God (Ephesians 6:13-17), that we have found true refuge and protection for our souls. This doesn’t mean that we’ll never pass through the valley, but that God will be right there with us when we do. His shadow is our light.