ODJ: Shielded

July 4, 2016 

READ: 2 Samuel 22:1-37  

God’s way is perfect. All the Lord’s promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection (v.31).

Tiptoeing around construction projects, I joined my husband as he talked with church members working on renovations to our building. As I waited patiently for them to finish, I noticed a little hole in my husband’s glove just below the knuckle of his finger. He explained that the guard on the high-powered grinder had moved while he was using it. The diamonds on his wedding band took the force of the fast-spinning blade. His finger spared, the only signs of the accident were the reduced size of the diamonds and the small hole in his glove.

Living our lives for Jesus doesn’t eliminate the risk or possibility of pain. Instead, Scripture calls us to a strong, enduring faith as it states, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my Saviour; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me and my place of safety” (2 Samuel 22:2-3).

David knew well the exhaustion of being continually threatened by a relentless enemy (vv.5-7). But just as he was familiar with the sweat, pain and angst of battle, he drew great strength from his own testimonies of God’s protection (v.20). He wasn’t a passive bystander rehearsing Scripture verses he had memorised as a child. He was an imperfect son whose very life depended on the fulfilment of God’s promises.

Not only was David’s footing made sure through his obedience (v.21), but he found peace in the awesome power of God, who loved him intimately. Long before he faced any battle, David had already decided that God was both good and true.

May we take counsel from this man who, though honest about his adversities still declared the truth of God’s shielding and protecting ways (vv.31,36).

—Regina Franklin

365-day plan: Matthew 7:13