Dimensions Of Divine Preservation

DIMENSIONS OF DIVINE PRESERVATION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 121:1-8

Key Verse: “The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.” (Psalm 121:7-8)

Supporting Texts: Psalm 91:10-12; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; Isaiah 46:4; Jude 1:24

INTRODUCTION:

Preservation is one of the most beautiful attributes of God towards His people. It speaks of God’s commitment to protect, shield, and sustain us from all forms of harm—whether spiritual, physical, emotional, or generational. Divine preservation assures us that we are not left at the mercy of circumstances or enemies; rather, we are kept under the watchful eyes of the Almighty.

The word preserve means “to keep safe from harm or injury, to maintain in its original state, and to sustain for future use.” God is not only a Saviour but also a Preserver, ensuring that what He has saved does not get destroyed. He preserves our lives, our souls, our health, our destinies, our faith, and even our generations.

In a world filled with uncertainty, wickedness, and dangers, believers must understand the different dimensions of divine preservation. These dimensions give us confidence that every area of our lives is covered by God’s unfailing protection.

1. PRESERVATION FROM EVIL

One of the greatest assurances of Scripture is that God delivers His children from the power of evil. Evil may be all around us, but God’s covering shields us.

a) Protection from the Wicked (2 Thessalonians 3:3): The Lord is faithful; He delivers and keeps us from wicked men and their schemes.

b) Preservation from Spiritual Attacks (Psalm 91:5): God shields His people from the terrors of the night and the arrows of the day.

c) Deliverance from the Snare of the Enemy (Psalm 124:7): Like a bird freed from a trap, God preserves us from every hidden agenda of the enemy.

d) Preservation from Everyday Dangers (Psalm 121:6): The sun shall not smite us by day nor the moon by night because God watches over us.

Biblical Example: Daniel was preserved from the evil plot of his enemies when he was cast into the lions’ den. God shut the lions’ mouths and kept him safe (Daniel 6:22).

2. PRESERVATION OF DESTINY

God does not only preserve us from evil but ensures that His purpose in our lives comes to pass. Our destinies are safe in His hands.

a) God’s Plans Cannot Be Wasted (Jeremiah 29:11): His thoughts for us are for peace and expected fulfilment, so He keeps our destinies intact.

b) Preservation in the Midst of Opposition (Psalm 138:8): Even in adversity, God perfects His will concerning us.

c) Sustained to Fulfil Assignment (Acts 18:9-10): God assured Paul of safety in Corinth because His destiny assignment had not yet finished.

d) Preservation for Generational Impact (Genesis 45:7): Joseph understood that God preserved his destiny in Egypt to save lives.

Biblical Example: Despite Saul’s attempts to kill him, David’s destiny was preserved because God had ordained him to become king over Israel (1 Samuel 19:9-10).

3. PRESERVATION OF HEALTH

Our physical wellbeing is part of God’s preservation. He promises to sustain us with health and strength to carry out His will.

a) Preservation from Diseases (Exodus 15:26): God declares Himself the Healer who protects His children from afflictions.

b) Preservation from Premature Death (Psalm 118:17): God sustains our health so that we may live to declare His works.

c) Renewal of Strength (Isaiah 40:31): Divine preservation restores our energy and keeps us from physical weariness.

d) Preservation through Angelic Protection (Psalm 91:10-11): God commands His angels to guard us from accidents and sudden harm.

Biblical Example: Hezekiah’s health was preserved when God added fifteen years to his life after he prayed (Isaiah 38:5).

4. PRESERVATION OF GENERATIONS

God’s preservation is not limited to an individual; it extends to their children and future generations.

a) Preservation of Seed (Psalm 37:25-26): The righteous man’s children are not forsaken but preserved by God’s mercy.

b) Covenant Preservation (Genesis 17:7): God’s covenant of preservation extends from Abraham to his descendants.

c) Preservation Through Legacy (Proverbs 20:7): The righteous man’s walk preserves blessings for his generations.

d) Preservation Through Intercession (Job 1:5): Parents who intercede can preserve their families from destruction.

Biblical Example: Noah’s obedience and righteousness preserved not only his life but also his entire household from the flood (Genesis 7:1).

5. PRESERVATION OF FAITH

One of the most vital dimensions is the preservation of our faith. Without faith, we cannot please God, and the enemy often targets it. But God keeps us standing in faith until the end.

a) Faith Kept from Failing (Luke 22:32): Jesus prayed for Peter that his faith would not fail, showing God’s preservation of faith.

b) Shielded by Faith (Ephesians 6:16): The shield of faith quenches every fiery dart of the wicked, preserving our walk with God.