The Power of Divine Hiding: Finding Strength in God's Shelter

The Power of Divine Hiding: Finding Strength in God's Shelter

In a world that often feels chaotic and threatening, the human instinct to hide is a natural response. We all experience moments when we want to retreat from the challenges, fears, and pressures that surround us. But where do we hide, and what are we truly hiding from?

The concept of hiding takes on a profound spiritual dimension when we look at it through the lens of faith. Psalm 27:1-5 beautifully captures this idea:

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked came against me to eat up my flesh, my enemies and foes, they stumbled and fell. Though an army may encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war may rise against me, in this I will be confident. One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple. For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; in the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock."

This passage reveals a profound truth: there is a divine hiding place available to us, a shelter in the presence of God. But what are we hiding from? The list is long and familiar to many of us:

- Fear and anxiety
- Attacks of the enemy
- Temptations and sin
- Public shame and scandal
- Emotional overwhelm
- The dangers of success
- Evil systems of the world

It's crucial to understand that hiding, in itself, is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it can be an act of wisdom. We naturally hide what is valuable, vulnerable, and destined for greater things. However, the way we choose to hide makes all the difference.

Self-hiding, driven by fear, shame, or insecurity, may seem like a protective measure, but it often leads to isolation and stunted growth. While it might offer temporary relief, it doesn't provide healing or true safety. Similarly, seeking protection outside of God, what we might call "Satan-hiding," can take many deceptive forms:

1. Through occult and witchcraft
2. Through lies and secrecy
3. Through compromise and worldly systems
4. Through addictions and escapes
5. Through fear-based submission

These forms of hiding are like graves – they bury, silence, shame, starve, and ultimately destroy. They offer a false sense of protection that leads to spiritual decay.

But there is another way – God-hiding. When God hides us, it's not to diminish or silence us, but to preserve, prepare, and ultimately display us in His glory. This divine hiding is a beautiful paradox:

Hidden Yet Visible: While Satan hides to cover in shame and manipulate, God hides us so that His glory can be seen through us. We become vessels of His light, even in times of seclusion.

Hidden Yet Valuable: In God's hiding place, our calling, gifting, and destiny are not diminished – they're gaining value. Like a precious gem being refined, this time of hiding enhances our worth in God's kingdom.

Hidden Yet Courageous: Far from cowering in fear, God's hiding place breeds courage. It's a shelter that empowers us to face life's challenges with renewed strength.

Hidden Yet Fearless: True fearlessness isn't the absence of danger; it's the presence of God. In His hiding place, we find a confidence that transcends circumstances.

Hidden Yet Abounding: Psalm 23:1 and Psalm 91 remind us that God's hiding place is also a place of abundance. Even in times of apparent scarcity, we lack nothing in His presence.

Hidden and Protected: As Psalm 91 beautifully illustrates, "He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler... Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling."

This divine hiding is a spiritual posture that we're invited to adopt. It's not about physical seclusion, but about finding our refuge in God's presence. It's a call to seek Him as our primary source of protection, guidance, and strength.

The question then becomes: Where would you hide? Who would you seek for hiding?

God's hiding is truly a paradox that defies human logic. In His shelter, we are simultaneously shielded yet shining, concealed yet celebrated, hidden yet highly lifted. It's a place where our vulnerabilities become the very channels through which God's strength is perfected.

As we navigate the complexities of life, with its myriad challenges and threats, we're invited to discover this divine hiding place. It's not a retreat from reality, but a strategic positioning that allows us to engage with life from a place of security and strength.

Let us then approach God with this heartfelt prayer:

"Hide me, Lord, in Your light!
Hide me, Lord, in Your strength!
Hide me, Lord, in Your presence!
Hide me, Lord, and lift me up!
Hide me, Lord, and let my life reveal Your glory!"

In conclusion, the concept of hiding in God offers a profound spiritual truth. It's not about escaping life's realities, but about finding our true identity and strength in God's presence. When we make the Lord our hiding place, we discover a paradoxical empowerment – we are protected yet purposeful, sheltered yet strong, hidden yet radiant with His glory.

As you reflect on your own life, consider where you've been seeking refuge. Are you trying to hide yourself, relying on worldly securities, or have you discovered the transformative power of hiding in God? Remember, in His presence, you're not just safe – you're being prepared and positioned for a greater purpose. In the secret place of the Most High, you'll find not just protection, but also the courage and strength to live out your divine calling.