Under the Shadow of Thy Wings

"The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes. ... He deviseth mischief upon his bed; he setteth himself in a way that is not good; he abhorreth not evil."   
The lower portion of the artwork depicts a darkened scene, representing the corrupt nature of the wicked. There are subtle symbols of pride, deceit, and mischief hiding in the shadows—illustrating how those who do not fear God often walk in paths of destruction. This darkness signifies the inner turmoil and destructive habits that can consume a person without the fear of the Lord to guide them. This is reflected in real life as well, where those who turn away from goodness and wisdom often fall into a spiral of harmful behavior, affecting both themselves and others.  

"Thy mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds. Thy righteousness is like the great mountains; thy judgments are a great deep: O Lord, thou preservest man and beast."   
Above the shadows of wickedness, the artwork transitions into a magnificent display of light and expansive skies. The heavens are portrayed stretching far into the horizon, representing God’s unending mercy and faithfulness. The great mountains in the background symbolize God’s steadfast righteousness, while the deep waters reflect the profound depth of His judgments. These images remind us that despite the existence of evil, God’s mercy is far greater, and His care extends over all creation, both man and beast alike. In life, this serves as a reminder that no matter how overwhelming the wickedness of the world seems, God's love and justice are far more vast and powerful.  

"How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures. For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light."   
In the center of the artwork, we see a figure resting peacefully under the expansive wings of divine protection, symbolizing the profound comfort and safety that believers find in God’s lovingkindness. The river flowing nearby represents the river of God’s pleasures, offering life and fulfillment to those who seek refuge in Him. The depiction of light breaking through the scene symbolizes the “fountain of life,” emphasizing that true clarity and joy come only from God’s presence. This resonates deeply with modern believers who find their peace and satisfaction in their relationship with God, despite the challenges and darkness that surround them.  

"O continue thy lovingkindness unto them that know thee; and thy righteousness to the upright in heart. Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me. There are the workers of iniquity fallen: they are cast down, and shall not be able to rise."   
The final portion of the artwork shows the inevitable fall of the wicked. While God’s mercy and light fill the scene above, the workers of iniquity are cast down into the dark abyss, unable to rise again. This powerful imagery represents the justice of God—those who oppose Him will ultimately face the consequences of their pride and wickedness. In our world today, this reflects the comfort believers can take in knowing that while evil may seem to thrive for a time, God’s justice will prevail in the end.  

Psalm 36 provides a poignant reflection on the duality of human nature—on one hand, the existence of wickedness and deceit, and on the other, the boundless mercy and righteousness of God. This psalm serves as a reminder that while evil may abound, God’s faithfulness endures, offering protection and life to those who seek Him.  

In real life, this psalm encourages people to trust in God's eternal goodness, knowing that even in a world filled with corruption and injustice, God’s light will shine through. Online, this psalm is often shared as a source of comfort during difficult times, reminding believers that their refuge is in God, and that He will not allow the wicked to triumph forever.  

The message of Psalm 36, as depicted in  "Under the Shadow of Thy Wings," calls us to find peace and rest in the assurance of God’s protection and to rejoice in the knowledge that His mercy extends far beyond the reach of any human wickedness. It also inspires us to live upright lives, knowing that God’s lovingkindness is our ultimate shelter, and His righteousness will prevail.