In But Not Of: Protected, But Not Safe—Part 3Sample

Protection ≠ Safety

What’s the very first thing you feel in a scary situation? Fear. You’re afraid of something bad happening, or of getting hurt. But imagine the person in your life who is strong, powerful, and isn’t afraid. Imagine them jumping into this scary situation with you. I’m pretty sure the way you feel would change. You might still be in a scary situation, but now you feel more confident, maybe even calm, because you are under their protection.

While this scenario hopefully won’t be happening to you anytime soon, Jesus spoke about the concept of safety and protection to His disciples. In John 17:11 NLT, He prayed, “…now protect them by the power of your name so that they will be united just as we are.” Jesus was asking for God to protect His disciples so that they would remain...what? United. While this prayer was originally said for His closest disciples, Jesus meant these words for all of His disciples and followers to come, and that includes you. Jesus has prayed on your behalf for your protection. 

However, this doesn’t mean that you will always be safe. There will be times in your life where you are in danger, where you will face adversity, where people will make fun of you for what you believe and who you believe in. But Jesus promised, no matter what, you would be protected. 

What’s an area in your life that God has protected you in?