Ultimately, our protection comes from God. In times of physical and spiritual attack and in threatening situations of all kinds, those who trust in the Lord find Him to be a strong Protector. “He shields all who take refuge in him” (Psalm 18:30). Here are some other passages that emphasize the protection of God:
“You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance” (Psalm 32:7).
“You make your saving help my shield, and your right hand sustains me; your help has made me great. You provide a broad path for my feet, so that my ankles do not give way” (Psalm 18:35–36).
“You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word” (Psalm 119:114).
“Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! . . . But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high” (Psalm 3:1, 3).
Under the Old Covenant, God promised physical protection to His people, the Israelites, as they kept the law (Deuteronomy 7:11–26). That divine protection extended to keeping them safe against the nations that would come against them as they entered the Promised Land: “I will send My terror ahead of you, and throw into confusion all the people among whom you come, and I will make all your enemies turn their backs to you” (Exodus 23:27, NASB). Here we see God protecting those whose actions accorded with His foreordained plans and purpose.
Psalm 121 is a wonderfully encouraging song for those who trust fully in God. The psalmist first identifies that his help comes from the Lord of all the earth (Psalm 121:1–2). He then instructs us on the attentiveness of the Lord toward His children—the One who never slumbers is on duty night and day (Psalm 121:3–6). Finally, the psalmist assures us that the God who watches us will keep us from harm and that He oversees all our activities now and forever (Psalm 121:7–8).
Individuals who knew the protection of God include David (Psalm 18:3; 54:7; 138:7); Noah (Genesis 7); Daniel (Daniel 6); and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3). God’s protection was even evident in Job’s life. Yes, Job suffered many trials as a result of the attacks of Satan, but God established boundaries that Satan could not cross. Satan was limited to doing only what God allowed, and nothing more (Job 1—3). Through all the misery and afflictions Job endured, God was protecting him from greater harm. God also protected Job’s faith, allowing Job to be tested only so far before He stepped in and spoke to Job (Job 38—42). Job could not see God working behind the scenes, but he came to understand that God’s protection is sure and faithful. God promises His people, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (see Deuteronomy 31:6; Joshua 1:5; 1 Chronicles 28:20; Hebrews 13:5).
In Scripture, God used several means of protecting His people, including angels (Psalm 91:11–12), fire (2 Kings 1:9–10), floods (Judges 5:21), escape routes (Acts 9:24–25), royal decrees (Ezra 6:11–12), pagan armies (Acts 23:23–24), and insomnia (Esther 6). God’s power and creativity are unlimited.
God’s promise of protection does not guarantee that we will never know pain or loss. Job’s story shows us that, although God is able to deliver us out of every physical calamity or trouble, it may not be His will to do so. Sometimes He uses trials to purify us. At these times, we should “count it pure joy” because, by allowing trials, God tests our faith to develop a deeper faith so that we persevere and grow to maturity and Christlikeness (James 1:2–3). Protecting us from trials is not always beneficial to us.
Also, God does not always shield us from the results of our own sins or the negative effects of the sins of others. Our world is fallen, and we endure its hardships. Many in Jesus Christ endure persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). Jesus assured His disciples, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). In every situation, however, God remains in control, and our sufferings have a limit. God will not allow us to be tested beyond our ability to bear it (1 Corinthians 10:13). “The waves may toss and roar,” God says, “but they can never pass the boundaries I set” (Jeremiah 5:22, NLT).
The promise of physical protection is not ours under the New Covenant; rather, our focus is on God’s spiritual protection against the enemies of our soul. For our spiritual protection, God has given us spiritual armor (Ephesians 6:10–18) and His own peace to guard our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7). The essence of God’s protection is the eternal indwelling of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 2:21–22). It is this protection that Paul had in mind when he wrote, “The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen” (2 Timothy 4:18). The Romans could do their worst, but Paul had confidence that “to be absent from the body [is] to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8).
The believer is sealed for the day of final glorification (Ephesians 1:13–14). No matter what happens in this world, heaven is our home. We are spiritually safe. “Blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit” (Jeremiah 17:8). We draw near to God and trust His protection. We invite His work in us, knowing that He will accomplish His good purpose in our lives (Romans 8:28–39).
Uiteindelik kom ons beskerming van God. In tye van fisiese en geestelike aanvalle en in dreigende situasies van alle soorte, vind diegene wat op die Here vertrou dat Hy ‘n sterk Beskermer is. “Hy beskerm almal wat by Hom skuil” (Psalm 18:30). Hier is ‘n paar ander gedeeltes wat die beskerming van God beklemtoon:
“U is my skuilplek; U sal my van benoudheid beskerm en my omring met gesange van verlossing” (Psalm 32:7).
“U maak u redding my skild, en u regterhand ondersteun my; u hulp het my groot gemaak. U maak ‘n breë pad vir my voete, sodat my enkels nie wyk nie” (Psalm 18:35–36).
“U is my toevlug en my skild; ek stel my hoop in u woord” (Psalm 119:114).
“Here, hoe talryk is my vyande! Hoe talryk staan hulle teen my op! … Maar U, Here, is ‘n skild rondom my, my eer, die Een wat my hoof hoog ophef” (Psalm 3:1, 3).
Onder die Ou Verbond het God fisiese beskerming aan Sy volk, die Israeliete, belowe terwyl hulle die wet onderhou het (Deuteronomium 7:11–26). Daardie goddelike beskerming het uitgebrei om hulle veilig te hou teen die nasies wat teen hulle sou kom toe hulle die Beloofde Land binnegaan: “Ek sal my skrik voor jou uit stuur en al die volke onder wie jy kom, in verwarring bring; en al jou vyande sal jou die rug toekeer” (Eksodus 23:27). Hier sien ons hoe God diegene beskerm wie se optrede ooreenstem met Sy voorbestemde planne en doel.
Psalm 121 is ‘n wonderlik bemoedigende lied vir diegene wat ten volle op God vertrou. Die psalmis identifiseer eers dat sy hulp van die Here van die hele aarde kom (Psalm 121:1–2). Hy onderrig ons dan oor die aandag van die Here teenoor Sy kinders – die Een wat nooit sluimer nie, is dag en nag aan diens (Psalm 121:3–6). Laastens verseker die psalmis ons dat die God wat oor ons waak, ons van kwaad sal bewaar en dat Hy nou en vir ewig toesig hou oor al ons aktiwiteite (Psalm 121:7–8).
Individue wat die beskerming van God geken het, sluit in Dawid (Psalm 18:3; 54:7; 138:7); Noag (Genesis 7); Daniël (Daniël 6); en Sadrag, Mesag en Abednego (Daniël 3). God se beskerming was selfs duidelik in Job se lewe. Ja, Job het baie beproewinge verduur as gevolg van die aanvalle van Satan, maar God het grense gestel wat Satan nie kon oorskry nie. Satan was beperk tot slegs wat God toegelaat het, en niks meer nie (Job 1–3). Deur al die ellende en verdrukkinge wat Job verduur het, het God hom teen groter kwaad beskerm. God het ook Job se geloof beskerm en toegelaat dat Job net tot ‘n sekere mate getoets word voordat Hy ingegryp en met Job gepraat het (Job 38-42). Job kon nie sien hoe God agter die skerms werk nie, maar hy het tot die besef gekom dat God se beskerming seker en getrou is. God belowe Sy mense: “Ek sal jou nooit verlaat of in die steek laat nie” (sien Deuteronomium 31:6; Josua 1:5; 1 Kronieke 28:20; Hebreërs 13:5).
In die Skrif het God verskeie maniere gebruik om Sy mense te beskerm, insluitend engele (Psalm 91:11-12), vuur (2 Konings 1:9-10), vloede (Rigters 5:21), ontsnappingsroetes (Handelinge 9:24-25), koninklike bevele (Esra 6:11-12), heidense leërs (Handelinge 23:23-24) en slapeloosheid (Ester 6). God se krag en kreatiwiteit is onbeperk.
God se belofte van beskerming waarborg nie dat ons nooit pyn of verlies sal ken nie. Job se verhaal wys vir ons dat, alhoewel God ons uit elke fisiese ramp of moeilikheid kan verlos, dit dalk nie Sy wil is om dit te doen nie. Soms gebruik Hy beproewinge om ons te reinig. In hierdie tye moet ons dit “as suiwer vreugde ag” want deur beproewinge toe te laat, toets God ons geloof om ‘n dieper geloof te ontwikkel sodat ons volhard en tot volwassenheid en Christusgelykvormigheid groei (Jakobus 1:2–3). Om ons teen beproewinge te beskerm, is nie altyd voordelig vir ons nie.
Ook beskerm God ons nie altyd teen die gevolge van ons eie sondes of die negatiewe gevolge van die sondes van ander nie. Ons wêreld is gevalle, en ons verduur sy ontberinge. Baie in Jesus Christus verduur vervolging (2 Timoteus 3:12). Jesus het Sy dissipels verseker: “Ek het julle hierdie dinge gesê, sodat julle in My vrede kan hê. In hierdie wêreld sal julle verdrukking hê. Maar hou moed! Ek het die wêreld oorwin” (Johannes 16:33). In elke situasie bly God egter in beheer, en ons lyding het ‘n beperking. God sal nie toelaat dat ons bo ons vermoë getoets word nie (1 Korintiërs 10:13). “Al mag die golwe onstuimig en bruisend wees,” sê God, “maar hulle kan nooit die perke wat Ek gestel het, oorskry nie” (Jeremia 5:22).
Die belofte van fisiese beskerming is nie ons s’n onder die Nuwe Verbond nie; ons fokus is eerder op God se geestelike beskerming teen die vyande van ons siel. Vir ons geestelike beskerming het God ons geestelike wapenrusting gegee (Efesiërs 6:10–18) en Sy eie vrede om ons harte en gedagtes te bewaak (Filippense 4:7). Die kern van God se beskerming is die ewige inwoning van die Heilige Gees (Efesiërs 2:21–22). Dit is hierdie beskerming wat Paulus in gedagte gehad het toe hy geskryf het: “Die Here sal my red van elke bose aanval en my red in sy hemelse koninkryk. Aan Hom behoort die heerlikheid tot in ewigheid. Amen” (2 Timoteus 4:18). Die Romeine kon hul ergste doen, maar Paulus het vertroue gehad dat “om afwesig te wees van “(m) die liggaam [moet] by die Here teenwoordig wees” (2 Korintiërs 5:8).
Die gelowige is verseël vir die dag van finale verheerliking (Efesiërs 1:13–14). Ongeag wat in hierdie wêreld gebeur, die hemel is ons tuiste. Ons is geestelik veilig. “Geseënd is die een wat op die HERE vertrou, wie se vertroue in Hom is. Hulle sal wees soos ‘n boom wat by die water geplant is en sy wortels by die stroom uitskiet. Hy vrees nie as die hitte kom nie; sy blare is altyd groen. In ‘n jaar van droogte is hy nie bekommerd nie en dra nooit vrugte nie” (Jeremia 17:8). Ons nader aan God en vertrou op Sy beskerming. Ons nooi Sy werk in ons uit, wetende dat Hy Sy goeie doel in ons lewens sal bereik (Romeine 8:28–39).
Bible Verse and Prayer for Today
I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.
—Romans 1:16
Are you ashamed?
Culture tries to make us ashamed about our faith, portraying people of faith as stupid, insensitive, judgmental, and hypocritical.
Are you ashamed?
Or, because you reverence Jesus as Lord in your own heart and life, you are willing to share your faith humbly and gently with those who do not know Jesus as their Lord (1 Peter 3:15-16).
Are you ashamed?
Your hero left heaven to come to earth and risk everything so that you could go home to heaven with him. This Gospel is powerful. This Gospel is transformational. This Gospel, and the salvation it brings, are for all people. So let’s not be ashamed; let’s be joyous and generous with this incredible gift that we have received and share this grace with all peoples of the world!
Prayer
Father in heaven, please give me wisdom, sensitivity, humility, and courage to share your wonderful story of grace with those around me who do not know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. In Jesus’ name. Amen and Amen
Bybel Vers en Gebed vir Vandag
Ek skaam my nie vir die evangelie nie, want dit is die krag van God tot redding van elkeen wat glo: eers vir die Jood, dan vir die nie-Jood.
—Romeine 1:16
Skaam jy jou?
Kultuur probeer ons skaam maak oor ons geloof deur mense van geloof as dom, ongevoelig, veroordelend en skynheilig uit te beeld.
Skaam jy jou?
Of, omdat jy Jesus as Here in jou eie hart en lewe vereer, is jy bereid om jou geloof nederig en sagkens te deel met diegene wat Jesus nie as hul Here ken nie (1 Petrus 3:15-16).
Skaam jy jou?
Jou held het die hemel verlaat om aarde toe te kom en alles te waag sodat jy saam met hom huis toe hemel toe kon gaan. Hierdie Evangelie is kragtig. Hierdie Evangelie is transformerend. Hierdie Evangelie, en die verlossing wat dit bring, is vir alle mense. Laat ons dus nie skaam wees nie; laat ons vreugdevol en vrygewig wees met hierdie ongelooflike geskenk wat ons ontvang het en hierdie genade met alle mense van die wêreld deel!
Gebed
Vader in die hemel, gee my asseblief wysheid, sensitiwiteit, nederigheid en moed om u wonderlike verhaal van genade te deel met diegene rondom my wat Jesus nie as hul Here en Verlosser ken nie. In Jesus se Naam. Amen en Amen.
Bible Teaching of the Day
King Solomon emphasize the importance of protecting our innermost being. Our heart is the source of our thoughts, attitudes, beliefs, and actions. Therefore, it is crucial to guard our hearts above all else.
The heart is a powerful force that drives our actions and influences our thinking and behavior. It can either lead us down a path of righteousness or a path of destruction. Our hearts are susceptible to sinful thoughts, attitudes, and beliefs. Hence, we must be mindful of what we allow into our hearts; everything we do flows from it.
Guarding our hearts is about protecting ourselves from external and internal factors. We must be mindful of the things we think about, the things we set our affection on, and the things we give our attention to. Negativity, bitterness, and anger can take root in our hearts and lead to sinful behavior. For this reason, the apostle Paul says, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice” (Ephesians 4:31). Guarding your heart means choosing to focus on godly thoughts (Colossians 3:2; Philippians 4:8), as well as seeking wisdom and guidance from God (Proverbs 4:7; James 1:5).
When we guard our hearts, we take responsibility for our mental, psychological, and spiritual well-being. In doing so, we protect ourselves from sinful influences that impede spiritual progress (Hebrews 12:1–3). By guarding our hearts, we become who God designed us to be (Ephesians 2:10).
There are several reasons why it is imperative to guard our hearts. First, our hearts have a significant impact on our relationship with God, and the condition of our heart can either draw us closer or push away us away from Him. When we meditate on the Word of God (Psalm 1:2) and allow it to sink into our hearts, we are radically transformed and will experience a greater sense of peace, joy, and contentment (John 10:10; Philippians 4:6–7; Galatians 5:22–23).
On the other hand, allowing sinful influences to take root in our hearts will hinder our relationship with God. We will struggle to pray, read the Bible, and may even feel distant from God. Thus, we must guard our hearts and cultivate a deeper relationship with God.
The second reason why it is imperative to guard our hearts is that the heart impacts our relationship with others. It can draw us closer to others or estrange us from them. For example, if we cultivate an attitude of love, kindness, and compassion toward others (Ephesians 4:32), we will build strong and meaningful connections with them. A heart of patience, understanding, and forgiveness creates a culture of trust and mutual respect (1 Corinthians 12:25–27).
On the other hand, allowing sinful thoughts to take root in our hearts and harboring resentment, bitterness, or envy toward others will create a toxic culture that drives people away. Strained and broken relationships are the natural result of sinful thoughts.
In John Bunyan’s The Holy War, the author pictures the heart as a city called Mansoul. In the allegory, access to Mansoul is obtained through five gates: Eye-Gate (one of the most significant gates), Ear-Gate (where the enemy of Mansoul, Diabolus, first attacks the city), Mouth-Gate, Feel-Gate (which is weakly guarded), and Nose-Gate. These entry points “could never be opened nor forced but by the will and leave of those within” (ch. 1, p. 62). Mr. Godly-Fear is in charge of the gatekeeping, and all of Diabolus’s attacks on Mansoul are repelled as long as Godly-Fear is the gatekeeper (chapter 15, p. 285).
Casting Crown’s 2007 song “Slow Fade” sounds a warning to guard your heart:
“Be careful little eyes what you see
It’s the second glance that ties your hands
As darkness pulls the strings. . . .
It’s a slow fade when you give yourself away.
It’s a slow fade when black and white have turned to grey
And thoughts invade, choices are made,
A price will be paid
When you give yourself away.
People never crumble in a day” (John Mark Hall, BMG Rights Management, Capitol CMG Publishing).
Guarding our hearts in godly fear is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship with God and others and for maintaining our own spiritual health. It means being intentional about what we allow into our hearts. It involves choosing to focus on thoughts and influences that promote love, kindness, and compassion. It means seeking God’s wisdom and guidance through prayer and meditation and allowing His love to flow through us to others. When we exercise discernment and guard our hearts, we experience the joy and blessings that come from living in community with other believers, and we become more effective in sharing God’s love and truth with the world.
Bybel Lering vir die Dag
Koning Salomo beklemtoon die belangrikheid daarvan om ons innerlike wese te beskerm. Ons hart is die bron van ons gedagtes, houdings, oortuigings en dade. Daarom is dit van kardinale belang om ons harte bo alles te bewaak.
Die hart is ‘n kragtige krag wat ons dade dryf en ons denke en gedrag beïnvloed. Dit kan ons óf op ‘n pad van geregtigheid óf op ‘n pad van vernietiging lei. Ons harte is vatbaar vir sondige gedagtes, houdings en oortuigings. Daarom moet ons bedag wees op wat ons in ons harte toelaat; alles wat ons doen vloei daaruit voort.
Om ons harte te bewaak, gaan daaroor om onsself te beskerm teen eksterne en interne faktore. Ons moet bedag wees op die dinge waaroor ons dink, die dinge waarop ons ons liefde vestig, en die dinge waaraan ons ons aandag gee. Negatiwiteit, bitterheid en woede kan in ons harte wortel skiet en tot sondige gedrag lei. Om hierdie rede sê die apostel Paulus: “Raak ontslae van alle bitterheid, woede, toorn, bakleiery en laster, saam met elke vorm van kwaadwilligheid” (Efesiërs 4:31). Om jou hart te bewaak beteken om te kies om op goddelike gedagtes te fokus (Kolossense 3:2; Filippense 4:8), asook om wysheid en leiding van God te soek (Spreuke 4:7; Jakobus 1:5).
Wanneer ons ons harte bewaak, neem ons verantwoordelikheid vir ons geestelike, sielkundige en geestelike welstand. Deur dit te doen, beskerm ons onsself teen sondige invloede wat geestelike vooruitgang belemmer (Hebreërs 12:1–3). Deur ons harte te bewaak, word ons wie God ons bedoel het om te wees (Efesiërs 2:10).
Daar is verskeie redes waarom dit noodsaaklik is om ons harte te bewaak. Eerstens het ons harte ‘n beduidende impak op ons verhouding met God, en die toestand van ons hart kan ons óf nader aan Hom bring óf van Hom af wegstoot. Wanneer ons oor die Woord van God mediteer (Psalm 1:2) en dit toelaat om in ons harte in te sink, word ons radikaal verander en sal ons ‘n groter gevoel van vrede, vreugde en tevredenheid ervaar (Johannes 10:10; Filippense 4:6–7; Galasiërs 5:22–23).
Aan die ander kant, as ons toelaat dat sondige invloede in ons harte wortel skiet, sal dit ons verhouding met God belemmer. Ons sal sukkel om te bid, die Bybel te lees, en mag selfs ver van God voel. Daarom moet ons ons harte bewaak en ‘n dieper verhouding met God kweek.
Die tweede rede waarom dit noodsaaklik is om ons harte te bewaak, is dat die hart ons verhouding met ander beïnvloed. Dit kan ons nader aan ander bring of ons van hulle vervreem. Byvoorbeeld, as ons ‘n houding van liefde, vriendelikheid en deernis teenoor ander kweek (Efesiërs 4:32), sal ons sterk en betekenisvolle verbintenisse met hulle bou. ‘n Hart van geduld, begrip en vergifnis skep ‘n kultuur van vertroue en wedersydse respek (1 Korintiërs 12:25–27).
Aan die ander kant, as ons toelaat dat sondige gedagtes in ons harte wortel skiet en wrok, bitterheid of afguns teenoor ander koester, sal dit ‘n giftige kultuur skep wat mense wegdryf. Gespanne en gebroke verhoudings is die natuurlike gevolg van sondige gedagtes.
In John Bunyan se The Holy War, beeld die outeur die hart uit as ‘n stad genaamd Mansoul. In die allegorie word toegang tot Mensiel verkry deur vyf poorte: Oogpoort (een van die belangrikste poorte), Oorpoort (waar die vyand van Mensiel, Diabolus, die stad eerste aanval), Mondpoort, Voelpoort (wat swak bewaak word), en Neuspoort. Hierdie toegangspunte “kon nooit oopgemaak of afgedwing word nie, behalwe deur die wil en toestemming van diegene binne” (hoofstuk 1, bl. 62). Mnr. Godvresende Vrees is in beheer van die poortwagter, en al Diabolus se aanvalle op Mensiel word afgeweer solank Godvresende Vrees die poortwagter is (hoofstuk 15, bl. 285).
Casting Crown se 2007-liedjie “Slow Fade” klink as ‘n waarskuwing om jou hart te bewaak:
“Wees versigtig, klein ogies, wat jy sien
Dis die tweede blik wat jou hande bind
Soos duisternis die toutjies trek…
Dis ‘n stadige vervaag wanneer jy jouself weggee.
Dis ‘n stadige vervaag wanneer swart en wit grys geword het
En gedagtes binnedring, keuses word gemaak,
‘n Prys sal betaal word
Wanneer jy jouself weggee.
Mense verkrummel nooit in ‘n dag nie” (John Mark Hall, BMG Rights Management, Capitol CMG Publishing).
Om ons harte in godvrugtige vrees te bewaak, is noodsaaklik om ‘n gesonde verhouding met God en ander te handhaaf en om ons eie geestelike gesondheid te handhaaf. Dit beteken om doelbewus te wees oor wat ons in ons harte toelaat. Dit behels die keuse om te fokus op gedagtes en invloede wat liefde, vriendelikheid en deernis bevorder. Dit beteken om God se wysheid en leiding deur gebed en meditasie te soek en Sy liefde deur ons na ander te laat vloei. Wanneer ons onderskeidingsvermoë beoefen en ons harte bewaak, ervaar ons die vreugde en seëninge wat kom uit gemeenskap met ander gelowiges, en ons word meer effektief in die deel van God se liefde en waarheid met die wêreld.
Today’s Devotional
According to Philippians 4:7, it is not we who guard our hearts and minds, but God. Paul writes, “The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7, ESV). To access this peace, believers must follow the commands of the previous verse: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).
Prayer is more than asking God to fulfill our requests. Yes, we should ask God for things (James 4:2), but we should also acknowledge His sovereignty (Matthew 6:9), seek His wisdom and guidance (Proverbs 3:5–6), and express gratitude for His wonderful blessings (1 Thessalonians 5:18). It is “with thanksgiving” that we present our requests.
As we choose not to worry but pray instead, God’s peace shields our hearts and minds. The peace of God surpasses all understanding because it is not contingent upon external circumstances. Even in the storm, we can know God’s peace, and it sets a guard over our hearts and minds. We must make a conscious choice to trust the Lord and “let the peace of God rule in [our] hearts” (Colossians 3:15).
Prayer is connected to God’s peace in that it is a way to focus our hearts and minds on the promises of God. Scripture abounds with promises about God’s love (Romans 8:31–39), protection (Psalm 91:4), wisdom (James 1:5), and guidance (Psalm 119:105). Embracing these promises helps to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
As we pray, we should meditate on God’s promises and “receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save [our] souls” (James 1:21, ESV). In doing so, we can face any challenge with boldness, knowing that the peace of God is actively guarding our hearts: “The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” (Psalm 118:6, ESV).
Prayer provides an opportunity for us to surrender our worries to God. We are to be “anxious for nothing” (Philippians 4:6) and “give all [our] worries and cares to God” (1 Peter 5:7, NLT). When we surrender our worries to God, His peace will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. In Christ, we can rest, knowing that He is carrying our burdens for us (Matthew 11:28).
Regular fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ is important, too. Christian fellowship allows us to pray with and for others. It is a good way to “bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2, ESV).
Most importantly, prayer strengthens our relationship with Christ. When we spend time with God in prayer, we draw closer to Him, and He draws closer to us (see James 4:8). As the relationship grows, we will see the fruit: “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5, ESV).
Worry about nothing. Pray about everything. Give thanks for anything. And God’s promise is that His peace will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. That peace is otherworldly, and it is beyond our understanding. The One who “will neither slumber nor sleep” stands sentinel over His children, granting them peace (Psalm 121:4).
Vandag se Bemoediging
Volgens Filippense 4:7 is dit nie ons wat ons harte en gedagtes bewaak nie, maar God. Paulus skryf: “Die vrede van God, wat alle denke te bowe gaan, sal julle harte en julle sinne bewaar in Christus Jesus” (Filippense 4:7). Om toegang tot hierdie vrede te verkry, moet gelowiges die bevele van die vorige vers volg: “Moet oor niks besorg wees nie, maar maak in alles julle begeertes deur gebed en smeking met danksegging bekend by God” (Filippense 4:6).
Gebed is meer as om God te vra om ons versoeke te vervul. Ja, ons moet God om dinge vra (Jakobus 4:2), maar ons moet ook Sy soewereiniteit erken (Matteus 6:9), Sy wysheid en leiding soek (Spreuke 3:5–6), en dankbaarheid uitspreek vir Sy wonderlike seëninge (1 Tessalonisense 5:18). Dit is “met danksegging” dat ons ons versoeke bekend maak.
Soos ons kies om nie bekommerd te wees nie, maar eerder te bid, beskerm God se vrede ons harte en gedagtes. Die vrede van God gaan alle denke te bowe omdat dit nie afhanklik is van eksterne omstandighede nie. Selfs in die storm kan ons God se vrede ken, en dit plaas ‘n wag oor ons harte en gedagtes. Ons moet ‘n bewuste keuse maak om die Here te vertrou en “die vrede van God in [ons] harte te laat heers” (Kolossense 3:15).
Gebed is verbind met God se vrede deurdat dit ‘n manier is om ons harte en gedagtes op die beloftes van God te fokus. Die Skrif is vol beloftes oor God se liefde (Romeine 8:31–39), beskerming (Psalm 91:4), wysheid (Jakobus 1:5) en leiding (Psalm 119:105). Om hierdie beloftes te omhels, help om ons harte en gedagtes in Christus Jesus te bewaak.
Terwyl ons bid, moet ons oor God se beloftes mediteer en “met sagmoedigheid die ingeplante woord ontvang, wat [ons] siele kan red” (Jakobus 1:21). Deur dit te doen, kan ons enige uitdaging met vrymoedigheid die hoof bied, wetende dat die vrede van God aktief oor ons harte bewaak: “Die Here is aan my kant; ek sal nie vrees nie. Wat kan ‘n mens aan my doen?” (Psalm 118:6).
Gebed bied ons ‘n geleentheid om ons bekommernisse aan God oor te gee. Ons moet “oor niks besorg wees nie” (Filippense 4:6) en “al [ons] bekommernisse en sorge aan God gee” (1 Petrus 5:7). Wanneer ons ons bekommernisse aan God oorgee, sal Sy vrede ons harte en gedagtes in Christus Jesus bewaak. In Christus kan ons rus, wetende dat Hy ons laste vir ons dra (Matteus 11:28).
Gereelde gemeenskap met ons broers en susters in Christus is ook belangrik. Christelike gemeenskap stel ons in staat om saam met en vir ander te bid. Dit is ‘n goeie manier om “mekaar se laste te dra en so die wet van Christus te vervul” (Galasiërs 6:2).
Die belangrikste is dat gebed ons verhouding met Christus versterk. Wanneer ons tyd saam met God in gebed deurbring, kom ons nader aan Hom, en Hy kom nader aan ons (sien Jakobus 4:8). Soos die verhouding groei, sal ons die vrugte sien: “Ek is die wingerdstok, julle die lote. Wie in My bly en Ek in hom, hy dra veel vrugte, want sonder My kan julle niks doen nie” (Johannes 15:5).
Moet oor niks bekommerd wees nie. Bid oor alles. Wees dankbaar vir enigiets. En God se belofte is dat Sy vrede ons harte en gedagtes in Christus Jesus sal bewaar. Daardie vrede is bonatuurlik, en dit gaan bo ons begrip. Die Een wat “nie sal sluimer of slaap nie” staan as wag oor Sy kinders en gee hulle vrede (Psalm 121:4).
The Collectors of Manna – Women of the Word // Gaarders van Manna – Vroue van die woord
Dilize Light has Managed a TruLight Ladies Group on Telegram for the Past 6 Years and from Today . she will be Sharing her Manna with the Ladies in The TruLight Daily Manna Platform . Dilize is the only Daughter of Pastor Dirk and has been part of the Ministry since the age of 11 . Dilize is also the Radio Host for the Popular TruLight Top 10 that airs on TruLight Radio XM saturdays at 17h00′
Dilize Light bestuur die afgelope 6 jaar ‘n TruLight Damesgroep op Telegram en van vandag af sal sy haar Manna met die Dames deel op die TruLight Daaglikse Manna-platform. Dilize is die enigste dogter van Pastoor Dirk en is deel van die bediening sedert die ouderdom van 11. Dilize is ook die radio-aanbieder vir die gewilde TruLight Top 10 wat Saterdae om 17:00 op TruLight Radio XM uitgesaai word.
Daardie Naam:
Die naam van Jesus … Die naam bo elke naam ( Filip 2:9 ). N lied geskryf deur Bill en Gloria Gaither herhinner ons daaraan waarom ons daardie naam so liefhet. Hy is ons Meester en ons Verlosser, Ja, watter diepte is daar nie in die name van ons Here Jesus nie. Wanneer ons sy grote naam, die naam van Jesus teenoor ander noem, hulle wat Hom as Redder nodig het, kan ons hulle ook vertel wat Hy vir ons gedoen het.
Jesus is ons Verlosser. Hy het ons deur sy kosbare bloed vrygekoop, en ons kan ons lewens met gerustheid aan Hom toevertrou. Jesus ja laat die Hemel en aarde – insluitende ons, sy wonderlike naam aan ander verkondig.
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus daardie naam gee besondere seën. Meester, Verlosser Jesus. Dis soos die geur na heerlik reën.
Die kosbaarste naam op aarde is die Naam van Jesus.
That Name:
The name of Jesus … The name above every name ( Philippians 2:9 ). A song written by Bill and Gloria Gaither reminds us why we love that name so much. He is our Master and our Savior, Yes, what depth there is in the names of our Lord Jesus. When we mention His great name, the name of Jesus to others, those who need Him as Savior, we can also tell them what He has done for us.
Jesus is our Savior. He bought us with His precious blood, and we can confidently entrust our lives to Him. Jesus yes, let Heaven and earth – including us, proclaim His wonderful name to others.
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus that name gives special blessing. Master, Savior Jesus. It is like the fragrance of glorious rain.
The most precious name on earth is the Name of Jesus.
TruLight Ministries Daily Entertainment
TruLight and Kingdom Kidz TV – Tell The Truth
Chuck Forte returns to Konnect HQ ready to turn over a new leaf. Will Dot be able to trust him and help him be known for his honesty? and later When Hudson struggles in the water, Gunnar jumps in to rescue his little buddy. A cool reminder that Jesus rescues us! This and some stunning kids’ songs.
Today on TruLight Radio XM
TruLight Radio XM 24/7
Program
GMT / UTC +2
Monday To Fridays
00:15 Words to Live By Testimonies
01.15 Science Scripture and Salvation
02.15 Ground Works
04.00 Gospel Concert of the Day
05.00 The Daren Streblow Comedy Show
5:55 It is Today devotional
6:00 Gaither Homecoming Morning Show
7:15 Discover the Word
8.15 Destined for Victory
8:55 Science Scripture and Salvation
9:00 Holy Spirit Hour – Normally Sermons
10:15 Hope of the Heart
11:15 Unshackled
11.45 Words to Live By
12:15 Truth for Life
13:15 Living on the Edge with Chip Ingram
14:15 Focus on the Family
15:00 Kids Hour
16:00 In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley
16:30 Groundwork
17:15 Live in the Light
18:15 Renewing your Mind
19:00 Gaither Homecoming Show
20:15 Growing Hope
21:15 Adventures in Odyssey Radio Drama
21:45 Bible Reading
22:15 Nightsounds
23.00 Good Old Country Gospel / Rhema Gospel Express
VISIT THE WEBSITE
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TruLight Ministry News
TruLight Ministries orders from God since 2012 . Teach Them , Comfort Them and Warn Them!
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TruLight Ministries opdrag vanaf God sedert 2012. Leer hulle, Troos hulle en Waarsku hulle!
Doctrine of Demons – Teaching for the Christian , Discerning the spirits
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