The Cleft of the Rock
Over the past couple of weeks, the weather here in Wales has been beautiful, so I’ve taken to walking the property here on the farm. Not only are there various hiking trails available within walking distance of our temporary home, but there is also a beautiful little lake with views overlooking the mountains and other scenery. So, each day, I pull on my boots and stroll along the winding paths. Some days, I pray. Others, I think. And some, I just watch the world around me.
However, this week, winter decided to make a swift return, and the weather has turned cold, windy, and even a bit snowy. While this temperature change has shortened my walks, I still try to get out a little each day and take a stroll.
The other day, I spotted a little lamb lying tight up against a rock. Feeling the biting wind on my face, I imagined he found a place where he was sheltered from the cold and the harshness of the weather. As I surveyed the scene and the contentment of the little lamb, the words to an old hymn played in my mind: “He hideth my soul in the cleft of the Rock that shadows a dry, thirsty land. He hideth my life in the depths of His love and covers me there with His hands.”
I thought of that precious lamb again this morning as I did my morning devotions. I’ve been working my way through the names of God again (one of my favorite studies), and today’s name was “Shield.” Immediately, I smiled. Just as the rock shielded that lamb from the storms of life, so does my God protect me. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized there are so many names of God that depict the same picture of that little lamb sheltered in the cleft of the rock. Here are just a few: Shield, Refuge, Rock, Hiding Place, Fortress, Shelter, Buckler, Habitation, and Defense.
Have you ever wondered why so many names describe God in such a similar fashion? I imagine it’s because a shelter from the harsh winds of life is what we are so often seeking. When life is hard, situations demanding, and strength waning, it’s good to know there’s somewhere to go to find peace. When we feel overwhelmed, beaten down, and discouraged, it’s encouraging to know that there is a shelter from the storm.
God knew we would face many trials in this life, so He reminded us repeatedly in His Word that no matter what, we can run to Him and find safety. He will hide us in the depth of His love. He will protect us, nourish us, and strengthen us. And like that little lamb, we can lie down and sleep in peace, knowing we’re in good hands.
“I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.”
— Psalm 4:8