Morning Devotional 021226 In the Shadows

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

February 12, 2026

Psalm 61:2-5

2 When my heart is weak, I cry out to you from the very ends of the earth. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I am 3 because you have been my refuge, a tower of strength in the face of the enemy. 4 Please let me live in your tent forever! Please let me take refuge in the shelter of your wings! Selah 5 Because you, God, have heard my promises; you’ve given me the same possession as those who honor your name.

Good Morning! God hears our cries!

In the shadow of your wings, I find refuge. 

I am a longtime fan of watching figure skating. It is one of my favorite Olympic events. 

I tried ice skating only once, but I spent a lot of time at the roller-skating rink. One year, while I was working at a child care center, I took a group of fifteen 4-year-olds roller-skating once a week. I watched them grow in confidence. In the beginning, most would cling to the rail that surrounded the rink. I would offer to hold their hand and support them as they ventured away from the rail. 

They would begin to let go of my hand and try to skate on their own. When they had a fall, they would quickly resume holding my hand or even return to the edge, clinging to the rail. This process was repeated many times, and eventually they relaxed and had fun. 

When we returned the next week, some remembered their previous success and built upon it, while others needed to repeat their previous routine before letting go. I gladly provided the support they needed to find their wings once again.

God is always with us. When we feel weak, God offers us a hand, and when we feel strong, God waits in the shadow, cheering us on. Our God is loving and merciful and never leaves us to fend for ourselves. 

Redeeming Lord, you bless us abundantly! We thank you, Lord, for holding us when we need support, and for letting go when we are ready to fly. Either way, you are there to pick us up when we fall. Thank you. We love you. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.

Thought for the day: When we ask, God can direct every step of our lives.

God is waiting in the shadows, ready to support us! Pastor Liz