Apr 23 – The Lord Who Protects!

“For the Lord will go before you, And the God of Israel will be your rear guard.” (Isaiah 52:12)

What a wonderful promise the Lord has given us today! He is the Lord who protects us. Just as an eagle spreads its wings over its young and guards them, He will protect you. Just as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings and shelters them, so the Lord will protect you.

Consider how the Lord protected the people of Israel at the shore of the Red Sea. Before them was the vast Red Sea with its roaring waves. Behind them were the armies of Egypt chasing them like fierce hunting dogs. There was no escape. Everywhere they looked, there was danger and distress.

At that moment the Lord told Moses to stretch out the rod in his hand toward the Red Sea. What an amazing sight! The sea split into two, and a pathway appeared. The Israelites began to walk through it joyfully, as though walking on dry land.

But when they looked back, they saw the chariots, horses, and armies of Egypt pursuing them. What could they do now? The sea was on both sides. There was no place to run.

Yet even in that situation the Lord was able to protect them. Until then the Angel of the Lord had been going before Israel, but now He moved behind them. The pillar of cloud that had been leading them also moved to the rear as their protection. It gave light to the Israelites, but it brought darkness to Pharaoh’s army.

Thus the Lord protected Israel both in front and behind. The Angel and the pillar of cloud stood as their shield. That wonderful Lord has not changed even today. Is He not your Father? Are you not His child? He will protect you in the same way.

No matter how many wicked people may rise against you, do not be troubled. Even if many conspire to destroy your family, do not lose heart. Just as a father protects his children, the Lord will protect you. Just as a mother comforts her child, He will comfort you.

Whenever troubles and struggles come, take Psalm 121 and read it prayerfully. What precious promises the Lord has given us there!

The psalmist says: “The Lord is your keeper; The Lord is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, Nor the moon by night. The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul.” (Psalm 121:5–7)

Children of God, receive these promises by faith.

Verse for further meditation: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)