He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91:1 ESV

Frances Ridley Havergal (1836 – 1879) was a well known and highly regarded English religious poet and hymnwriter. A contemporary of Charles Spurgeon, she had an extensive education and was fluent in several languages, including Greek and Hebrew.

Much of her work was published posthumously by her sister Maria. Frances desired her last book of poetry to be titled ‘Under His Shadow‘. Though she died before publishing the book, her sister recalled Frances’ thoughts behind the title: “I should like the title to be ‘Under His Shadow.’ I seem to see four pictures suggested by that: under the shadow of a rock in a weary plain; under the shadow of a tree; closer still, under the shadow of His wing; and nearest and closest, in the shadow of His hand. Surely that hand must be the pierced hand, that may oftentimes press us sorely, and yet evermore encircling, upholding, and shadowing!” (Adapted from the preface, Under His Shadow)