Divine Protection

March 8

Numbers 1

Psalm 31:19-24

Proverbs 7:13-17

Mark 9:42-10:12

Divine Protection

“How great is Your goodness that You have stored up for those who fear You and accomplished in the sight of everyone for those who take refuge in You.  You hide them in the protection of Your presence; You conceal them in a shelter from the schemes of men, from quarrelsome tongues.  May the Lord be praised, for He has wonderfully shown His faithful love to me in a city under siege.  Be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord.”  Psalm 31:19-21, 24 HCSB

David had experienced first-hand the divine protection of the Lord.  He was being hunted by Saul and forced to hide in caves to avoid being killed.  God had, on more than one occasion, delivered him from certain death. The words David chose paint a beautiful picture of a loving Father who loves and protects His children.  He stores up abundant goodness for those who fear Him.  Not only does He dispense goodness to us; He stores it up for us so that it is available when we need it.  He hides us from the plots of men.  When we are completely unaware that someone is plotting against us or scheming to cause trouble for us, God knows and is placing a cover of protection over us.  He is working on our behalf to bring about good and to “make all things work together for our good.” Romans 8:28 (NIV) When we are in distress and we cry out to God for help, He hears us and answers.  We can be strong and take courage because our hope is in the Lord and His steadfast love. 

In the midst of difficulty, it is easy to become discouraged and lose hope.  David provides an excellent example for us to follow.  When he was afraid, he cried out to the Lord.  When he was discouraged, he reminded himself of all the times God had been faithful to him in the past. When he was weary, he prayed for God’s strength.  And when he experienced God’s power and protection, he spent time in praise and thanksgiving.  David knew God intimately.  He had a deep, abiding, personal relationship with His Lord and he was confident that God would take care of him no matter what happened.  We have that same assurance of His love and protection.