He [God] will cover you with his feathers; you will take refuge under his wings. His faithfulness will be a protective shield.

Psalm 91:4 (CSB)

Driving through Oklahoma, I glimpsed an adult bald eagle perched prominently atop an evergreen tree. The sight flashed by as we sped on, but he was forever etched in my mind. I haven’t seen one in nature, only in captivity. His “bald” head of vibrant white feathers radiated authority and power. Unmoved by his surroundings, weighty in presence, he portrayed unrivaled protection and peace—what my fearful heart most craves. Secured. Defended. Watched over. Sustained. Sheltered.

Thank you, Lord God Almighty, for allowing me to experience your majesty through your visible creation.

Feeling afraid and helpless can prevent us from doing the “next thing.” Maybe the next thing is simply to hide in God. Let him shelter us from storms. Let’s not retreat into unhealthy hiding—isolating ourselves, overindulging in things, and pulling the covers over our heads.

The next thing needn’t be huge. Its value isn’t to be compared to someone else’s next thing. If bedridden, the next thing may be to call out to Jesus, “Help me!” trusting him to hear, or maybe call on him on behalf of another hurting soul. Maybe you’re able to get out of bed, but depression immobilizes you. Your next thing may be to offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving for life and each new day.

Stanza four of “Doe ye Nexte Thynge” is*:

Do it immediately; do it with prayer;

Do it reliantly, casting all care;

Do it with reverence, tracing His hand

Who placed it before thee with earnest command,

Stayed on Omnipotence, safe ‘neath His wing,

Leave all resultings. DO THE NEXT THING.

God, we can be courageous to “do the next thing” because you protect us as we hide in your unmatched strength and faithfulness.

… and your life is hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3 CSB).

Karen Sims

*Steele Elliott, Emily Elizabeth. Stillness and Service. London: Seeley, Jackson & Halliday, circa 1875.