The Ultimate Protection
“Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me, Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.” - Psalm 23:4-5
We discussed yesterday how Jesus is our provider. He is all that we need. But that is not all that He is. Jesus will not only take care of our provisions, but He will also be our protection.
Jesus’ audience would have been reminded of the world of the psalmist who said, “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me, Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.”
Shepherds provide, but it is also their responsibility to protect. Unlike other animals, sheep do not have the ability or the agility to flee and run when they are under attack. All they can do is huddle together, and hope they are not the one who falls prey to the enemy.
But when the shepherd is around, sheep can be confident that there is someone who can protect them from all hurt, harm, and danger. While the thief comes to steal, kill and destroy, Jesus says He came that we might have life and have it abundantly, and He ensures that through His protection.
What are you afraid of? What area of life are you desperate for God’s protection? We hear a lot about God being our provider, and He most definitely is. But He is the Good Shepherd. He is not only your provider, but He is the ultimate protector. No matter what situation you find yourself in, He will protect you. And because of that, you do not have to fear!
We discussed yesterday how Jesus is our provider. He is all that we need. But that is not all that He is. Jesus will not only take care of our provisions, but He will also be our protection.
Jesus’ audience would have been reminded of the world of the psalmist who said, “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me, Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.”
Shepherds provide, but it is also their responsibility to protect. Unlike other animals, sheep do not have the ability or the agility to flee and run when they are under attack. All they can do is huddle together, and hope they are not the one who falls prey to the enemy.
But when the shepherd is around, sheep can be confident that there is someone who can protect them from all hurt, harm, and danger. While the thief comes to steal, kill and destroy, Jesus says He came that we might have life and have it abundantly, and He ensures that through His protection.
What are you afraid of? What area of life are you desperate for God’s protection? We hear a lot about God being our provider, and He most definitely is. But He is the Good Shepherd. He is not only your provider, but He is the ultimate protector. No matter what situation you find yourself in, He will protect you. And because of that, you do not have to fear!
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