Quite often people say I speak in parables and this may be true because I grew up in a code-speaking environment so I somewhat have a knack for speaking allegorically and ‘exclusivizing’ everyday language – basically, hiding or codifying the true meaning of words.

I think I have made enough contribution to be awarded an Honorary Degree in Encryption. Besides, I so much enjoyed playing ‘hide and seek’ as a child I ended up in a bottle. How’s that for an achievement? Just kidding! I am Jeanie, not Genie 

² From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

³ For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.

⁴ I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.
Psalm 61: 2-4

Overwhelmed
In the opening verses, the psalmist asked to be led to a higher rock moments he was overwhelmed.
For you this may be times:

… You feel you can’t take any more
… It seems the weight of the world is on your shoulder
… You are weary, discouraged or hopeless
… It feels like you’re alone and nobody cares
… You don’t feel like praising, praying, or fellowshipping

I am talking about:

… The wintry and windy seasons that intensify your plea (whatever it be)
… Challenging times that get you singing ‘carry me dey go’ or ‘que sera sera’
… Dry seasons that deplete your jar of flour and jug of oil (debt and bad credit)
… When there is lesser capacity than there is content
… Days you believe you can fly but there’s headwind beneath your wings (ask Kelly or Midler)

You get the picture!

When
This could be an instance or a single incident with varying severities such as defamation, dismissal, divorce, disease or a near-death encounter. The truth is everyone has a ‘when’ but what’s even more crucial is where/who they go to and what they do then. Some people go into caves, restaurants, pubs, clubs yet others default to social media, rehab, or church.

Where/Who
This can be physical or invisible. For the psalmist, it was a rock which is symbolic of strength and stability (God). The cliffs and crags in biblical times had crevices which made them a perfect hideout during a war. No wonder David calls God a shelter for privacy and protection, and a strong tower – fortified against, and inviolable by the enemy. I love this! Your rock might be a parent, sibling, friend or spouse. Go there!

Here are a few lessons from the Psalmist:

1. You may not be able to go on your own. In other words, you need guidance and support. Engage with the right people, principles or processes. Be led.

… Lead me to the rock. Psalm 61:2b

2. You need a higher plane. A different level than you’re presently navigating. Change dynamics!
   Shift focus!! Switch positions!!!

 … to the rock that is higher than I. Psalm 61:2b

3. You not only need a place to hide but also a place to abide. A place to rest, relax, recharge, and recover. Where is home? Where is heaven? Where is your heart?   Where is your harbour or haven? Where do you hideaway?

…I will abide in Your tent forever. Psalm 61:4a

Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young– a place near your altar, LORD Almighty, my King, and my God.  Psalm 84:3 

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