I think a lot about the English word “cover” – especially in winter. Possibly because I am so cold natured, I am always looking for a cover – a blanket, coat, sweater, or jacket – just about anything to keep the warmth close to my body. When it is cold enough, I even want to cover my head with a hat, my neck with a scarf and my hands with gloves.
I am a writer and a reader and pay attention to book covers.The cover protects the pages of a printed book from damage and covers – even e-book covers – should give a good clue as to what is inside.
A covering may be physical or figurative. What is covered generally benefits from support or protection.
- I know of churches and people’s homes where there are no walls or just one wall. The main part of the structure is just a covering. The tin roof helps protect against the elements.
- Many people are covered by an insurance policy that should come through if their house is damaged, their automobile is in an accident or they have health issues.
- Paint can cover stains, flaws and hairline cracks on a wall.
- Temporary workers cover for employees on holiday leave.
- People may “head for cover” when a tornado strikes – in a storm shelter if they have one.
- Although I am cold natured, I am often grateful for a cloud cover when working outside in the hot summer. My skin and eyes need protection from the glaring sun.
- A policeman may go “under cover” in order to expose crime.
There are also spiritual implications.
Just like a false storefront that is a cover for an illegal operation, Satan attempts to cover up his true intentions by masquerading as an angel of light. A believer should be able to recognize his deceptive ways because God’s Spirit exposes him.
Without God as our covering, we are on our own – stuck in a life of sin without protection from the dangers of this world.
Thank God, His covering brings salvation, refuge and joy.
Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered…. He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge. His truth shall be your shield and buckler (Psalm 32:1; 91:4). I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation. He has covered me with the robe of righteousness (Isaiah 61:10).
One Focus Ministries 