We recently finished up a series in Sunday school entitled “Possess the Land.” Going through the lessons each week, we learned about Moses and the children of Israel. We were able to see the faith of Moses and how God always protected and cared for the children of Israel. No matter how many times they murmured, complained, or even turned their backs on God, God still loved them, forgave them, and took care of them.
A few months ago on a Wednesday, my husband got a notification on his phone that there would be a SpaceX satellite launch just after nine o’clock that night. Instead of trying to hurry home to see it from our house, we decided to stay out after church so we would not miss it. It had rained while we were in church, but by the time church dismissed, it had stopped raining. This allowed us to stand outside and watch for the satellite launch. Clouds were still in the sky, but stars could be seen through the clouds. My children were hopeful and excited.
We waited. We watched closely but never saw the launch or even just a bright light of any kind. The clouds had blocked our view. We were a little disappointed and wondered if we should have just gone home instead of waiting around just to stare at clouds.
While driving home a little sad, we noticed the interstate was still wet from the earlier rain. We soon passed a couple of cars that had gotten into an accident. Not long after that, we spotted another accident site, evidenced by cars pulled onto the shoulder of the road. Before exiting the interstate, we saw nearly six locations of car accidents in a row. Judging by what we saw, these accidents must have happened minutes before we passed them. I could not help but think, “What if we had headed home instead of waiting to see the satellite launch?” I believe God was protecting us that night.
As Christians, we are the children of a Heavenly Father Who protects us. Psalm 91 is such a comforting reminder of God’s protection and love for us. Verses 3-4 say, Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. The latter part of the chapter goes on to say, He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.
Do we go about each day thanking God for protecting us? We cannot always see what God is protecting us from experiencing. I know it can be frustrating to wait then see no results or reasons for why we are not moving, but perhaps God causes us to wait to protect us from what we cannot see. Circumstances in our lives can take time, and we may question God, “Why am I stopped here?” We never need to wonder if He watches over His children; He always sees what is ahead. Let us take comfort in knowing that He protects us and has us safe in His care. Unseen protection from an all-seeing God is the best refuge that we can have!
by Mandy Harper
