The Promise of Protection
I have been pondering lately the vast number of promises of the Lord’s protection in His Word. God is presented throughout the Bible as a fortress, shield and protector. The One who fights our battles, is more than enough, our provider, protector and friend! These promises are for those who call on His Name, those who are in relationship with Him through His Son Jesus and place their trust in Him. James says: - “submit to God, resist the devil and he will flee.” James 4:7. The closer we are to God, the further away the enemy must be as he can’t stand being in the presence of God!
Jesus’ Name is above every other name, above every sickness, disease, test and trial. His is the Name at which every knee will bow and every tongue confess His Lordship. (Phil 2:9-11).
Whilst His Word doesn’t promise immunity from trials, hardship or suffering, it does assure us of the spiritual strength and grace to not only endure but to overcome every difficulty in life. Isa 54:17 declares “no weapon formed against us will prosper.”
Protection is ‘part of the package’ that flows from our relationship with the Saviour of the world, the Creator, Redeemer and sustainer of life.
When you purchase a new car, you usually must pay more for the extra features, special paint treatment or the top of the range model. To use another simple analogy, when you buy a hamburger, there is always an additional cost for one with ‘the lot’.
When we surrender our lives to Jesus and commit to abiding in Him, we get ‘the lot’. We are promised Divine protection and provision. Read Psa 91 afresh today and let the promises contained therein strengthen your soul.
Space doesn’t allow a full study of the protection afforded those who are born-again disciples of Jesus but here are just a few to encourage you today: - (emphases added)
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, (enemies) for the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deut 31:6
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” Psa 23:4-5a. The enemy must sit and watch us enjoy a banquet!
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?” Psa 27:1
“The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him and delivers them.” Psa 34:7
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…” Psa 46:1-2
“…“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.” Isa 43:1-2
Jesus speaking of His sheep (that’s you and me) says: - “…I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. “My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand.” John 10:28-29.
Jesus sending out the 72 (and by implication you and me) said: - “Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Luke 10:19.
“And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; “they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” Mark 16:7-18.
“But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.” 2 Thess 3:3.
As you mediate on these verses, may you experience new strength and courage in the midst of your circumstances.
As we travel around the country, so often we hear His sons and daughters ‘begging’ God for protection from a place of fear not understanding His protection is part of ‘the package’ included in our Salvation. Of course, we must never take it for granted, however it is a form of unbelief to ask God for something He has already given us through the death and resurrection of His Son. We minister from a place of victory! The victory Jesus won over sickness, death and the devil. He also made the payment in full for our sin, past, present and future with His blood on the Cross of Calvary. Hallelujah!
Let me suggest instead of begging Him for something He has promised repeatedly in His Word, adopt an attitude of gratitude and thank Him for His Divine protection. It’s part of the ‘package.’ He promises NEVER to leave us or forsake us! (Deut 31:6 & Matt 28:20).