1 Samuel 6:20–21 (ESV): 20 Then the men of Beth-shemesh said, “Who is able to stand before the Lord, this holy God? And to whom shall he go up away from us?” 21 So they sent messengers to the inhabitants of Kiriath-jearim, saying, “The Philistines have returned the ark of the Lord. Come down and take it up to you.”
God needs no defender. He is capable of protecting Himself against those who stand in opposition to Him. Our job is not to protect God but to preach the Gospel. Let us never forget this!
Samuel's prophecy against the house of Eli came to pass when Israel went to war against the Philistines. Israel was routed, the Ark of God was captured, and Eli and his two sons died in the process. Every place the Philistines took the Ark of God was plagued with tumors and mice. After seven months, the Philistines decided to send the Ark back to Israel. They built a cart, yoked two milk cows to it, and sent the Ark off to Israel. It came into the field of Joshua of Beth-shemesh and stopped there. God prevailed over His enemies with no help from man.
Do you ever make it your job to protect God? We are called to share the Gospel with God’s enemies, not protect God from those who oppose Him. Our job is to extend an invitation of reconciliation to all who will hear. That is it! Stay in your lane, Christian. Reside in the shadow of His wing and go into all the world under His protection, not as His protector. Know your role!
Father, we thank You for being our protector. Send us out as Your ambassadors of hope and help us to be faithful to preach, not protect, we pray in Jesus' name, amen.
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