“Shelter” by pop artist Tori Kelly is a fun song about a romantic relationship, but its general themes could also apply to friendships. God cares about all our relationships–family, friendships, romance, and acquaintances (co-workers, neighbors, among others). When considering "Shelter" from a biblical perspective, it’s essential to remember the true nature of godly relationships.
It’s not good for people to be alone; companionship is a good thing designed by God (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). Friends are supposed to sharpen one another (Proverbs 27:17). A true friend sticks closer than a brother, always loves, and is born for moments of adversity (Proverbs 17:17; Proverbs 18:24). We should pray for one another, love one another, encourage, and build each other up (1 Thessalonians 5:11). We should share in each other’s burdens and help each other get back on track if we stray from God’s path (Galatians 6:1-3).
The kind of people you surround yourself with really matters. You want people in your life who will push you closer to Jesus and be there for you to lift you, support you, and challenge you to grow in life and your journey of faith in Jesus.
God is the ultimate shelter for each of us. He loves us, strengthens us, and cares for us. He fights for our good more than anyone else. The song’s chorus could be heard as God singing over you and me, too. But God also works through us in each other’s lives as well. Who does God want you to support and encourage today? How is God inviting you to trust Him more as your shelter today?
Psalm 91:1-2 (NLT): “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him.”
Proverbs 17:17 (NLT): “A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need.”
Lyrics
I’ll be your blanket when it’s cold And I’ll be your coffee when it snows And if you get offbeat, I got flows (Flows) I’ll be on it, keep it honest to our promise When you got one (One) Life left inside of you (You, you, you, you) And you got too (Too) Much on your plate What you need (Need) Is someone to carry you I’ma hold it down for ya (Jump into me, jump-jump into me) (Already know what you need) (Already know I could be) I could be your shelter I could be your shelter
This article was originally published on KTSY.org.
NRT contributor Jasmin Patterson is a lifelong Christian music fan passionate about helping others connect with Christ. She lives in Kansas City, serves in college ministry, and runs a blog to help seekers and believers discover and live biblical Christianity.
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