A Prayer for God's Protection in the New Year
By Keri Eichberger
Bible Reading:
"But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one." - 2 Thessalonians 3:3
Listen or Read Below:
How do you feel about Satan? You know, that sneaky snake we were introduced to in Genesis—also known as the devil—that duped Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, and is the reason the whole world went wrong. Hey, maybe you don’t feel or think much of him at all. And I get it. There was a time not long ago I didn’t want to acknowledge our ultimate enemy either. Here’s what I thought: If I recognize he is actually near, he might mess with me more. But, if I pretend he doesn’t even exist, he’ll slink away so kindly.
The problem with this thought process, I later learned, is that by not giving his constant deceiving ways and attempts to inflict fear any notice, I was less likely to remember and grab hold of the shield of God. My stronger defense and protection I was always surrounded with. Thus leaving me more vulnerable and susceptible to Satan’s sneak attacks.
For example, I tend to worry about stuff. I’m not mentioning a specific something, because on a given day, in a certain situation or season, I can find my mind wrapped up in knots with all kinds of things. Like at the start of a fresh year. I feel the pressure and onset of anxiousness at the flip of every December. Anyone else? With a whole new set of 365 days ahead—full of plans, expectations, what ifs, whens, and hows—I can let unease simmer and swell within me, and allow bits of fear to plague and paralyze me. It’s the evil one on the move. And I know I need God’s protection. Certainly from the elements and barrage of difficult circumstances that could come to pass. But mostly from the enemy’s more personal offense to try to steal my joy and peace, by instilling fear, doubt, and discouragement. His plans to tempt with sin, and falsely convince me I have reason to believe I’ll be left alone, helpless, and without hope in the midst of all the “hard” ahead.
Do you ever feel discouraged by past disappointments, overwhelmed with current worry, or fearful of what might happen next? And do you want so badly to resist these distractions and find confidence you’ll be prepared and protected to face and overcome what’s to come?
We all want internal and external protection. We need God’s protection. Constantly. Because the enemy is lurking nonstop. And his aim is to destroy. But the best news—the reason we can and should be aware of Satan’s schemes—is that the ever-present spirit of God surrounding you and in you already defeated the enemy of our life and soul when God the Father sacrificed his son, Jesus. The most powerful, all-powerful God won. Our God wins. Always.
2 Thessalonians 3:3 says, But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one. Some versions say he will “protect you.” And protection is what we want to be sure we have. Well, let me assure you right now of this: The Lord our God is faithful. He is our strength. He is our guard, shield, and protection from the evil one. From his lies, deceptions, and attempts to destroy. Child of God, you are protected. Christ follower, who claims and calls on Jesus as Savior, you will be protected.
So, as we prepare to begin a new year, and find ourselves swimming in thoughts of the unknowns ahead, and longing for divine protection from the evil invading our minds. Longing for rescue from the troubles of the world that try to drag us down and take us out. Let’s remember that the Lord, our constant companion, is there to protect us. Always. Have faith and hold tight to the truth of his faithfulness, power, and love that will continue to strengthen every single one of his children, you and me, through all our days and moments ahead.
Let’s Pray:
Father God, You are the mighty warrior who saves me. You see every move I make, you know all that surrounds me, and you know everything that lies ahead. I am so thankful for your constant care. I know sometimes I give fear and worry too much space in my heart and head, but here and now, I want to declare the truth: I know you have me, I trust you, and I thank you. Help me not forget that the evil one is near. And not to cause me fear, but so that I can lean more and more on your stronger shield. On you. Lord, You are faithful. You are my strength. I praise you for your mighty power and love that never leaves me.
In your blessed name, I pray, Amen.
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