The artist waits in earnest anticipation as the crowd gathers around the covered masterpiece they had spent years on. The groom smiles with uncontrollable excitement as he looks at his beautiful veiled bride make her entrance. The greatest misconception is that the unseen is the unwanted, but the truth of the matter is – precious stones are always discovered hidden away.
The most significant work happens in the inner courts and behind closed doors and it’s important for us not to overlook the honour that comes in being covered and concealed. Often the secluded times we spend veiled – unseen by opportunity or people; can put a dent in our confidence especially considering that in such times everything and everyone around us seems to be centre stage and making leaps and bounds in their journeys. Whether it feels like it or not it is vital to remember that there is purpose in that season where you are veiled.
Protected
A covering is a form of protection. Psalm 91:3-5 perfectly explains the security and perfect peace that comes from being shielded and guarded. In order for the work to begin you need to trust that God has got you and that comes by fully understanding that He has His eyes fixed on you and is intentional about safeguarding you in this season.
Purified
The amazing restoration and refreshing that comes with rest is often difficult to comprehend. Today’s culture seldom celebrates rest or the impact that comes with honouring the concept of the Sabbath. In Hebrews 4:9-11 we are encouraged as heirs of the Kingdom to receive the blessing that comes from stopping and retreating in that rest. There is a purifying that comes with renewal (mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally) and it is unwise to neglect those seasons. Allowing ourselves to be purified through rest is not a dormant or inactive process but funnily enough it requires work, we have to labour to find and keep our rest. God understands us better than we do, (which makes sense as He is our creator) so follow his example and be renewed as He wraps you in His arms whilst you rest.
Preserved
Not only is God preserving you for the best, but He is also preserving the best for you. You being hidden away is not a mistake. You are not missing your divine appointment or watching somebody else catch your blessing. Whilst He makes all things new in you He his holding fast onto that position and glory you are about to step into after your unveiling. So rather than feed the fear of missing out, water the faith that reminds you of how great the God is that holds your future – a future of peace and hope (Jeremiah 29:11-15).
Presented
When a caterpillar begins the process that ushers them into their own season of being veiled, they understand the beauty that awaits them. After a quiet and intense time spent in the cocoon they willingly entered into, they pull their veil off and reveal their new acquired wings of splendour. Elevation always comes after the unveiling and there is a glory that comes with revealing what was once concealed.
The season of being hidden away may seem like a lonely and tiresome one but take time to enjoy this preparation period and allow God to do His best work behind that veil. And perhaps most importantly remember that despite being covered God – the great El Roi, always sees you.
And when the unveiling comes it will be a glorious one because the nation has been eagerly expecting the beauty they will soon behold from behind the veil.
By Dorcas Payne