Equipment
This allegorical painting was inspired by many scriptures, but two were the primary source of inspiration. Deuteronomy 31:6 says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Habakkuk 3:19 says, “The Lord God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and he will make me to walk upon high places…”
In this painting, she has been led by the Holy Spirit (the raven) to this place in the wilderness to receive “equipment” for her journey. The wilderness is a metaphor for our lives. Our lives are a wilderness journey with many ups and downs; hard places, smooth places; all leading to a glorified end-goal. But the path each of us is to take is unknown. How long it will take is unknown. The right equipment is crucial to keep us safe throughout the journey. Each animal represents specific characteristics of God that she is taking as her equipment. The lion represents God’s strength, power, courage, and fearless. The deer represents God’s vigilence, peace, and the ability to overcome obstacles.