The Bible frequently uses the imagery of wings to describe God’s protection, provision, and presence for His children. This beautiful metaphor illustrates how God shelters His people, much like a bird cares for its young. The imagery of an eagle soaring and a hen hovering over her chicks both appear in Scripture, each revealing a unique aspect of God’s care.
But why does Jesus use the image of a hen in contrast to the eagle or other birds mentioned in the Old Testament? And do the Old Testament verses specifically refer to an eagle, or is it only implied? Let’s explore these questions while reflecting on what we experience under His wings as His children.
1. Under His Wings: Refuge and Protection
Psalm 91:4 – “He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.”
Psalm 17:8 – “Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.”
Psalm 57:1 – “Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by.”
One of the greatest blessings of belonging to God is that He provides a place of refuge. Just as a bird shields its young from danger, God covers His people, protecting them from spiritual harm, oppression, and the storms of life.
- God’s faithfulness is our shield – We can trust that He will never fail us.
- His wings are a hiding place – When trials come, we can take shelter in His presence.
- Even in storms, we are secure – The wings of God are a refuge until the trouble has passed.
Under His Wings: A Blessing for Those Who Trust in Him
Ruth 2:12 – “The Lord repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge!”
These words were spoken by Boaz to Ruth, recognizing her deep faith and sacrifice in leaving her homeland to seek refuge among God’s people. This verse beautifully illustrates how **God offers shelter and provision to those who trust Him**.
- God rewards faithfulness – Ruth left everything behind, and God honored her decision.
- God’s wings are a place of refuge – Ruth, once an outsider, found protection under God’s care.
- God’s grace is for all – This verse shows that even a Moabite woman could come under His wings, just as we are invited into His kingdom.
Like Ruth, we are called to take **refuge under God’s wings**, knowing that He is faithful to bless and protect those who trust in Him.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Run under His wings—there, you will find perfect peace and safety.
2. Under His Wings: Love and Tender Care
Psalm 36:7 – “How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.”
Psalm 61:4 – “Let me dwell in your tent forever! Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings.”
The wings of God are not just strong and protective—they are also a place of tender love and care. Like a mother bird gathering her chicks, God’s presence is warm, personal, and nurturing.
- God’s love is precious – More valuable than anything the world can offer.
- His presence is home – We can rest forever in His tent, never needing to leave.
- His care is personal – He is not just a distant protector but a loving Father who desires closeness.
Do you long for comfort and security? Rest under His wings, knowing you are deeply loved.
3. Under His Wings: Help and Strength
Psalm 63:7 – “For you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy.”
Deuteronomy 32:11 – “Like an eagle that stirs up its nest and hovers over its young, that spreads its wings to catch them and carries them aloft.”
The eagle’s wings in Deuteronomy give us a powerful picture of God’s strength. Eagles do not just hover—they carry their young and teach them to fly. God does the same for us:
- He lifts us when we are weak – Just as an eagle carries its young, God lifts His people in times of struggle.
- He teaches us to soar – God doesn’t just protect us—He empowers us to rise up in faith.
- His presence turns fear into joy – Even in difficulty, we can sing for joy under His wings.
4. Why Did Jesus Use the Hen Instead of the Eagle?
Matthew 23:37 – “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!”
Unlike the majestic eagle of the Old Testament, Jesus chooses the image of a hen when speaking of His desire to gather Israel. Why?
- A hen is humble – While an eagle is strong and mighty, a hen is lowly and accessible, just as Christ came not in power but in humility (Philippians 2:5-8).
- A hen sacrifices herself – Unlike an eagle, a **hen will die** for her chicks—just as Christ gave His life for us.
- A hen is near to her young – Jesus walked among us, just as a hen stays close to her chicks.
Jesus longs for us to come under His wings—but, like Jerusalem, we must be willing.
Conclusion: Are You Under His Wings?
God invites us to find refuge, love, strength, and salvation under His wings. Will you come?