Sunscreen! Sunglasses! Umbrellas! Safety glasses! Armor! Bullet-proof vests! What do these have in common? They all provide a protective shield against something. Protection from the elements. Protection from flying objects. Protection from life-threatening forces. Life presents many situations where some type of protection is required.
Peter encouraged. . .
“(3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (4) to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, (5) who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” (1 Peter 1:3-5 ESV)
By His power we are “guarded” (ESV) or “shielded” (NIV). There is only so much we can do to protect ourselves and those we love. The Psalmist frequently referred to God using such terms as “fortress”, “shield”, “stronghold”, etc. and we should view Him as such today. God’s power is extended as a shield to protect us that we may be assured of receiving the eternal blessings promised to those who are His. His power uplifts us by the assurance of a “living hope” connected to an “inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading.” God has reserved it for us, and He has promised to guard and shield us until our salvation has come in its fullness!
Have a great day KNOWING YOU ARE SHIELDED BY GOD’S POWER!
Carl
