Brief introduction
The fear for safety was one of the consequences of man’s Fall through sin. Man was vulnerable and now prone to danger and other forms of insecurity and tragedy. Adam aptly revealed it thus: “I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid.” (Genesis 3:10) God’s covenant promise for protection was need-specific: It is to save man from all forms of danger and trouble in all their ramifications on Earth. This is amazing! This post shall reveal the promises of God in relation to protection.
Meaning of Protection
The Hebrew word translated as “protect” or “preserve” is shama (pronounced shaw-ma) which means to hedge about (i.e. guard), to be careful, to watch carefully over (John 10:28-30). The Cambridge English Dictionary defines “protect” as “to keep someone or something safe from harm, injury, damage or loss.” “Protection” according to Merriam-Webster Dictionary is “the state of being kept from harm, loss, etc.” In God’s promise He assures us: “There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.” (Psalms 91:10)
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God’s Promises for Protection
As a Refuge: “Refuge” means a safe place. God made Himself a safe and secure place for His people. He is the full assurance of protection: “I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” (Psalm 91:2) His promise of protection is certain and specific: “The eternal God is thy refuge...” (Deuteronomy 33:27)
His Presence: God’s promise of protection is demonstrated by His abiding presence. “And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.” (Exodus 33:14) The assurance of His presence is always and at all times (Genesis 28:15; Isaiah 41:10).
No Harm / Hurt: His assurance to save us from any harm / hurt situates the promise of protection. “For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.” (Acts 18:10) We will tread on dangerous paths and take up deadly things, but they will not hurt us (Mark 16:18-20).
As a Deliverer: The Advanced English Dictionary and Thesarus defines “deliverer” as “a person who rescues you from harm or danger.” God’s promise for protection is further demonstrated in His attribute as the Deliverer. He assures us of safety from the enemy, all evil works and sudden danger (2 Timothy 4:18). The Lord revealed the importance of this promise succinctly “. . . they shall fight against thee, but they shall not prevail against thee: for I am with thee to save thee and to deliver thee, saith the Lord.” (Jeremiah 15:20-21)
His Angels: The Lord uses His angels to give expression of His promise of protection as they constantly hear His Word (Psalm 103:20; Hebrews 1:14). “The angel of the Lord encampeth round them that fear him, and delivereth them.” (Psalms 34:7) Angels, as ministering spirits, are given charge to protect and preserve God’s people at all times (Psalms 91:12)
Scriptural Examples of God’s Protection
• Elisha and his servant (2 Kings 6:15-17).
• David when King Saul wanted to kill him (1 Samuel 19:9-10).
• The three Hebrew boys: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3:27-28).
• Daniel in the lion’s den (Daniel 6:19-23).
• The disciples of Jesus Christ in the boat (Mark 4: 37-39).
• Paul and his fellow travellers (Acts 27:21-25).
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