April 18 Under His Wings

A Devotional on God’s Protection

Dr. Diane Ricketts
Berea SDA Church

Scripture: 

“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 (NIV)

One morning, as I prepared to leave my home, I made it my duty to ask for God’s protection—not just for myself, but for my family as well. My prayer was intentional, a direct request for His extra coverage over our lives.

Upon arriving at church, I heard the sound of chickens. At first, I saw nothing, but then I heard God’s voice prompting me to look down. Right before me was a mother hen, gathering her seven little chickens under her wings. I stood there, captivated by this simple yet powerful scene. The hen instinctively knew that danger was near, and without hesitation, she covered her little ones under her protective embrace.

At that moment, the image of God’s divine protection became real to me. Just as that hen sheltered her chicks, so does God gather His children under His mighty wings. It was not by accident that there were seven chicks—on the seventh day, the Sabbath, a day of rest and divine covering. This was a living parable of God’s faithfulness and care.

Application:

How often do we stop and recognize the covering of God in our lives? The enemy plots against us, circumstances threaten to overwhelm us, yet God spreads His wings over us, shielding us from harm. Just as a mother hen instinctively protects her young, God is always watching, always covering, always shielding His children.

When trials come, let us remember that we are not alone. His wings are wide enough, strong enough, and sure enough to cover all of us—not just seven, but all of His children who trust in Him.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for being our refuge and protector. Just as the hen gathers her chicks, You gather us under Your mighty wings. When fear and danger arise, remind us that You are our shield and our fortress. May we always find comfort in Your presence and trust in Your unfailing love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Challenge for Today:

Before stepping out today, take a moment to acknowledge God’s coverage over your life. Speak Psalm 91:4 over yourself and your family, knowing that under His wings, you are safe. 

Repeat: He will cover me with his feathers, and under his wings I will find refuge; his faithfulness will be my shield and rampart.

Here is a video that demonstrates this protection. 

Click the link to watch: Video of a hen and her chickens