Have you ever come across a verse that was difficult to shake? By that I mean, unable to stop pondering, thinking or unpacking? Indeed, these verses are the hidden jewels of the wealth of treasure throughout God’s Word, and once discovered — they radiate like diamonds on the soul.
He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. Psalm 91:4
For some time now this verse has conjured up all sorts of images . . . wings, protection, safety, shelter and the list goes on. But it was the latter part of this verse that stirred in my heart for more than a week. His faithfulness? Mentioned in the same breath as feathers and wings? My shield and rampart . . . what in the world is rampart? My only reference to this word in my everyday life was from my childhood, watching one of my favorite shows in the early 80’s called Emergency One! It was a syndicated TV series focused on the world of two paramedics at Station 51 and their close working relationship with Rampart General Hospital. The paramedics would arrive on an emergency scene, care for the wounded and call into “Rampart” to alert them of injuries in need of immediate care. And like the heroes they were, they whisked the injured to the hospital. Upon arrival, “Rampart” became the place for healing, recovery, care — where peace conquered chaos, and disasters became stories of miracles.
A place of fortification — rampart serves as a place, a broad place, raised to an elevation to serve as a defense. Now it’s starting to become more than feathers! My God serves as a broad, expansive defense for me. And not just Him, but through His faithfulness this shield and rampart protects. Can anyone else see the radiant diamonds glistening in this discovery?
My God, my Rampart!