Psalm 91:1-2, “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God, in him will I trust.”
During a great storm, the best place to be is under a shelter that protects you from that specific type of storm. A variety of structures could be used to shelter away from the storm, each have their own advantages. One probably wouldn't shelter in a basement during a flood. Nor would one choose to take cover in a camping trailer during the midst of a hurricane. The storm dictates where you find shelter and refuge.
In the spiritual realm, there is only one place to shelter during all of life's storms. This shelter is a secret place, but it can be found by all. It is in the shadow of One far bigger than any storm, yet the shadow is always nearby. This shelter is the one who said "Peace be still," and his disciples marveled that even the winds and the sea obeyed Him. He is the same who provided for the Widow of Zarephath when she thought the meal barrel was about dry. Of course, He previously fed the Prophet Elijah with the ravens. How could we forget how He protected an entire nation from the pursuit of the Egyptians? He protected Israel with a pillar of the cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. The Lord Jesus Christ is a great shelter, to be used for every area of life.
So when do we run for the shelter? Should we wait until a storm of life so great demands exigency and urgency? Would you stay in the basement as the waters begin to flood the room and wait until it's knee high? waist high? shoulder high? Maybe stay in the camping trailer until the hurricane begins to violently shake it, and make a quick escape just before the trailer is picked up in the whirlwind? Of course not, I speak facetiously to make a point. This is a relationship with the One who casts a great shadow. It is not a fire-escape religion.
I contend that we are to remain sheltered at all times! Psalm 91 used the word "dwelleth." That is present tense. Not dwelt or will dwell - but "dwelleth." Find your refuge and fortress in the Lord! Make it a continual dwelling. Trust in Him who will not leave you nor forsake you. "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Isaiah 41:10
-Brother Michael