THE PROTECTOR

Oh God, You haven’t left us to figure out life on our own. You take such good care of us! 

You provide tenderly, as a shepherd provides for helpless sheep. (Psalm 23:1)

You replenish our souls with Your word and Your goodness! (Psalm 23:2-3a)

You lead in the way we should go. (Psalm 23:3b-4)

But sometimes, we get ahead of You. Or, we get behind. 

“We can!” Echoes of James and John (Mark 10:39). When we find ourselves running ahead taking charge of life, we’re susceptible. Weak. Life’s enemies challenge our safety! They are bigger than we can handle alone! Then we draw near again, closer to You, The Protector. Enemies are eclipsed by Your power. You, in all of Your goodness, sit us down and “feed” us - as you did Elijah (1 Kings 19:1-7). Our souls are strengthened again in You, safe again in Your protection. 

“We can't!” Echoes of Moses (Exodus 3-4). When we find ourselves lagging behind, questioning our value, our purpose, and even our identity, we’re susceptible. Weak. Life’s questions challenge our security! They are bigger than we can handle alone! Then we draw near again, closer to You, The Protector. Questions are answered by Your love. You, in all of Your mercy, “anoint” us as Yours (Romans 8). Our souls are filled to overflowing again in You, secure again in Your protection.

Never alone. Lord, by Your protection we – Your children – are never alone! Your goodness is constantly with us. Your mercy is always poured out on us, (Psalm 107:1). Close to You, we are safe. Secure.  

Every moment of every day. Every step of the way.

Until the end of life. 

And then…

We enter our true home! The place that is very far better! (Philippians 1:23). The place with no enemies, and no uncertainties. Permanently safe and secure from all alarms. Forever close to You. At last! 

We can’t wait! 

Lead us gently home, Father. 

Psalm 23:5-6

Cherie Vestal * Midland, TX * cherie.vestal@gmail.com