“Protection provides peace of mind.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – November 15, 2024
Anyone who does not take care of his family and those in his house has turned away from the faith. He is worse than a person who has never put his trust in Christ. 1 Timothy 5:8, NLV
My wife, Rita, and I recently enjoyed an outdoor brunch with friends. What made our experience intriguing was the presence of a falconer. Falconry is the ancient art of training birds of prey, such as hawks, falcons, and eagles, to hunt or fly in cooperation with a human handler, wearing a special glove to protect his hand. The man explained that the presence of his Harris Hawk protects the guests from pesky predators and scavengers like birds swooping in to grab a bite to eat. Wow, ok, thankful. What a pleasant environment we enjoyed in God’s creation, without interruptions and the fear of an unwelcomed fly-by visitor! Protection provides peace of mind.
This reminded me that unpleasant intruders seek to distract and disable our families. The allure of the world’s influence, screens, scrolling, and demonic temptations all packaged together is a fierce foe to wreak havoc on our homes. Fortunately, we have a heavenly hawk poised to protect and provide peace, but a human handler is required to initiate faith, hope, and love. Faith in Jesus Christ and the Lord and Savior of the home, hope in the Holy Spirit to guide and give direction and wisdom, and the love of our heavenly Father to blanket the hearts and minds of every family member. Protection comes to a family whose head of the household surrenders to serve God. As Joshua declared, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!” (Joshua 24:15).
Caring for your family is not passive but an intentional process of prayer, leaning into God’s grace to create a safe place to process pain and celebrate healing. What a gift for your children to be able to express fears and confess being conflicted so they can learn how to do life better. A friend’s teenage daughter recently spent the night at her friend’s home (a nice Christian family), but after pizza, an inappropriate movie was watched. The next day, she felt embarrassed but explained what had happened to her mom and dad. Wisely, the parents affirmed her honesty and followed up with her friend’s parents about the movie boundaries they have in place related to films their family enjoys. Their protection was not a prescription for other families but what was right for their family. Protection from setting entertainment and relational boundaries may cause short-term discomfort but long-term clarity and peace of mind. Protection facilitates freedom.
Most of all, lean into the Lord’s protection. As a child of God, you are under His constant care and protection. Just like a shepherd guards his sheep, God watches over you in every season. When trials come, you can find peace knowing that His protection is both personal and powerful. You aren’t shielded from difficulties, but God promises to be with you in the midst of them, strengthening and guiding you. “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear” (Psalm 46:1). A paraphrase from Charles Spurgeon’s sermons is reassuring, “God is too good to be unkind, and He is too wise to be mistaken. And when we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart.” In times of uncertainty, you can trust God’s heart to protect you in ways you might not even see. Lean on Him through prayer, immerse yourself in His Word, and seek His wisdom. His protective hand doesn’t mean the absence of struggle, but it assures you that no harm will come that He cannot redeem. He holds you in the palm of His hand for your peace and protection from unseen enemies. Protect and be protected.
Prayer
Lord, I thank You for Your constant protection over my life. Even when I face challenges and uncertainty, I trust that You are with me, shielding me from harm. Help me to rest in Your care, knowing You guide my steps and guard my heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Application
What area of your life or family might be exposed and need protection?
Related Reading
Deuteronomy 31:6; Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 34:17-18; Romans 8:38-39
Worship Resource
Hillsong United: Whole Heart (Hold Me)
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