There is an African proverb: “A person hides in the feathers of chicken.” Traditionally, chickens are commonly used in situations requiring sacrifice to the ancestors or earth shrines for problems. If there are chickens in the home, these African people believe that they can ‘hide inside the feathers of the chicken.’ They are safe from danger, as well as wicked demonic attacks. This gives wonderful insight to the verses in Psalms. (Psalms 91:4) (Effective Intercultural Evangelism: Good News in a Diverse World, by W. Jay Moon and W. Bud Simon) Pinion is the outer cover of the wings of a bird. People of God are compared with young chicks under the wings. (Psalms 61:4) Lord Jesus wanted to bring Jerusalem under his wings, but the city was rebellious. (Matthew 23:37)
1) Shelter: God has His own secret place where we are invited to live in His fellowship. (Psalms 27:5; 31:20) God is the dwelling place of His people. (Psalms 90:1) It is the mercy seat of God, where saints could go and enjoy rest. This is not for mystics as some people believe. A king and warrior, David experienced this. God is our hiding place. (Psalms 32:7)
2) Shadow: Shadow is the place of protection, comfort, rest, relaxation, refreshment, and care. The Bible speaks about four shadows: The shadow of the rock; His Hand, tree; and His wings. (Isaiah 32:2; 49:2; Song of Solomon 2:3; Psalm 63:7) David prays: Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.” (Psalms 17: 8)
3) Stronghold: The Name of the Lord is a strong tower; righteous people take refuge in it and are safe. (Proverbs 18:10) He is our refuge and fortress in the days of trouble.
4) Shield and buckler: Shield is often a large rectangular metal, to ward off all attacks of enemies. Buckler is like an overcoat that covers the whole body made of metal mesh. Truth is God’s armour against the Lie and Falsehood of Satan.
Have I taken shelter in the shadow of His wings?