We have learned since childhood about the blessings of being protected. Remember when we were in the arms of our moms and dads? It seemed as if the world’s dangers could not reach us. Now that we are grown up, we believe we can take care of ourselves, like having a home which shelters us from the elements and provides security against whatever might want to harm us. But of all the things in this world that might give us a sense of safety and defense, there is nothing that can compare to the divine power and authority of God’s presence always watching over us. Psalm 23:4 helps us to see there is no need to be afraid: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” The rod and staff symbolize God’s authority, guidance, and protection, serving as reminders of His covenant with His people and His commitment to lead them through any of life’s challenges. In John 10:11, Christ promises, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” Accept and receive His great love and allow Him to give you true hope and peace.
The other night I had difficulty sleeping, and as I tossed and turned, harassing thoughts were bombarding me and trying to interfere with my peace. I began to pray and ask God to help me and was reminded that in the Bible, one of God’s attributes is that He is like a shield. If we choose to stay close to Him and trust Him, we can be safe. This brought me great comfort as I could imagine being surrounded by His presence as I envisioned the arrows of the enemy harmlessly bouncing away. The next thing I knew, it was morning. As I went downstairs and started on my first cup of coffee, I was still thinking about the shield and went into my office to look up the definition. “Shield” basically means a guard to defend and protect, to cover as a barrier, a place of shelter and security to hide behind, and a way to preserve and maintain our safety. Being aware of this promise gives us confidence even when fear is trying to defeat us. A familiar scripture of comfort is found in Matthew 11:28: “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
Like most of you, I’m hearing a lot of talk about an economic recession, food and fuel supplies and prices, and the wars currently being fought, which are unnerving, to say the least. However, even within the chaos and anxiety, God’s people can choose to stay close to Him and be filled with His faith and joy! As we make a sincere decision to trust Him no matter what may come, we can stand strong and believe as First John 4:4 declares, “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” Proverbs 18:10 reminds us, The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” When we are perplexed with worry and doubt, we can run to Jesus. He is the King of Kingdom authority!
There is a story recorded in Matthew chapter eight about Christ being in a boat on a lake with His disciples. While He took a nap, there arose a violent storm, and His friends were terrified the boat was going to sink. They awoke Him, and He calmly spoke to the wind and waves to stop, and suddenly it was perfectly calm. Some may say, “What does this have to do with my crisis?” He is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and still has the power and desire to command “Peace be still” to your storms now! Jesus is perfectly aware of what you are going through and knows exactly what to do. Psalm 33:20 reassures us, “Our soul waits for the Lord: He is our help and our shield.” Whatever is troubling you today, remember that God can do anything, and nothing is impossible for Him. Be encouraged with Psalm 28:7, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoices; and with my song will I praise Him.”
Dr. Holland is an ordained minister, chaplain, and Christian author.