Author Archives: Patty Perkins

About Patty Perkins

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I'm Patty, writer of the devotional blog, Beside Quiet Waters. I love writing, reading and taking long walks with my camera. I've been married to my loving husband for 40 years. We have two grown sons, two lovely daughters-in-law, and two amazing grandchildren. I am thankful for a place to share spilled ink, in hopes of encouraging others to find daily hope and inspiration in God's Word.

Shade Tree

You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.
—Psalm 145:16 (NIV)

Photo by JP Nunes on Pexels.com
God is like a great big shade tree
That longs to gather its kids
with branches low enough to climb, and
wide enough for a nap,
or if you prefer, an afternoon snack.

Who wouldn’t stay? I think when I’m here,
but all too soon my affections veer.
I could travel the world, I could sail the seas, and
always, always, this shade tree
would be waiting for me.
 Scripture tells us . . . 

You sit poised and ready, longing to gather Your children under Your wings if they were but willing. (Matthew 23:37 NASB). The emotions are real.

You're prepared to unleash manna to those who hunger (Psalm 78:24 NASB). You are able to bring water from hard places (Isaiah 48:21 NASB).

You store up great good for those who take refuge in You (Psalm 31:19 NASB).

You are ready to lift one who has fallen, for a broken heart you do not despise (Psalm 51:17 NASB). Near to the broken hearted are you (Psalm 34:18 NASB).

You satisfy the desires of every living thing (Psalm 145:16 NASB).

You, my trustworthy and faithful friend.
You, my Savior and my God.
Where else would I go?
To whom could I look?
You — it is You, who daily carries the weight of my life;
You are my salvation (Psalm 68:19 NASB).

Thank you, Lord Jesus, my everlasting shade tree.