Surrounded by His Love: Living in God's Blessings and Protection Psalm 5:12
Introduction:
Today, we dive into the richness of Psalm 5:12. This verse encapsulates the heart of God's relationship with His people, His boundless favour, and His protective love. Let's read together from the New Living Translation:
Psalm 5:12 (NLT): "For you bless the godly, O Lord; you surround them with your shield of love."
This powerful verse reveals four profound truths about God's favour and protection. Let's explore these together.
1. The Blessing of the Godly
Psalm 5:12a (NLT): "For you bless the godly, O Lord..."
The term "godly" here refers to those who are devoted and faithful to God. It’s a reminder that God's blessings are not random but intentional, directed towards those who walk in His ways.
Psalm 1:1-3 (NLT): "Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do."
This passage contrasts the life of the godly with that of the ungodly. The godly person is blessed because they avoid the influence of the wicked and instead find joy in God’s law. Meditating on God’s word consistently provides nourishment, making them like a tree with a constant water source, ensuring fruitfulness and prosperity.
Like the tree by the riverbank, our lives need the nourishment of God’s word. Let’s commit to daily Bible reading and meditation, allowing it to shape our thoughts and actions.
Imagine a farmer who plants seeds in fertile soil. He carefully tends to them, ensuring they receive water and sunlight. Just as the farmer blesses the plants with what they need to grow, God blesses us, His children, providing all we need to thrive spiritually.
Charles Spurgeon: "The blessings of the godly are as natural as showers of rain to the earth, as gracious as the love of God, as perpetual as the heart of Christ."
2. Surrounded by His Love
Psalm 5:12b (NLT): "...you surround them with your shield of love."
The imagery of a shield signifies protection and safety. God's love is not just a passive feeling; it is active and encompassing, shielding us from harm.
Psalm 91:4 (NLT): "He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armour and protection."
The imagery of God covering us with His feathers and sheltering us under His wings signifies His tender care and protection. His promises act as our armor, providing security against the fears and dangers we face.
In times of trouble, we can find refuge in God’s promises. Let’s remember to seek His protection and trust in His care, just as a chick trusts in the shelter of its mother’s wings.
Romans 8:38-39 (NLT): ""And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Paul assures us that God’s love is unbreakable and all-encompassing. No external force or internal fear can sever the bond of love that God has for us through Jesus Christ.
Think of a mother hen gathering her chicks under her wings. No matter the threat, she ensures they are protected. Similarly, God's love is our shield, ever-present and unwavering.
Corrie Ten Boom: "There is no pit so deep that God’s love is not deeper still."
When we feel distant from God or overwhelmed by life's challenges, we can take comfort in knowing that His love for us is steadfast and unchanging. Let this truth bring peace to our hearts.
3. The Certainty of His Promises
Psalm 5:12a (NLT): "For you bless the godly, O Lord..."
God's promises are certain and trustworthy. When He declares blessings upon the godly, we can be sure that He will fulfil His word.
Numbers 23:19 (NLT): "God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. Has he ever spoken and failed to act? Has he ever promised and not carried it through?"
This verse underscores God's faithfulness and reliability. Unlike humans, God is immutable and always truthful. His promises are sure, and His actions are consistent with His word.
We can trust in God's promises with absolute certainty. When He speaks, it will come to pass. Let's hold onto His promises with confidence and live out our faith boldly.
2 Corinthians 1:20 (NLT): "For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding 'Yes!' And through Christ, our 'Amen' (which means 'Yes') ascends to God for his glory."
Imagine a trusted friend who has never let you down. How much more can we trust in God's promises, knowing He is perfect and faithful!
All of God's promises find their fulfilment in Jesus Christ. In Him, every promise of God is confirmed and affirmed. Our response of "Amen" signifies our agreement and acceptance of these fulfilled promises.
Billy Graham: "God's promises are like the stars; the darker the night, the brighter they shine."
In Christ, we have assurance that God’s promises are true. As we live out our faith, let’s constantly affirm and claim these promises, allowing them to shape our lives and actions.
4. Walking in His Protection
Psalm 5:12b (NLT): "...you surround them with your shield of love."
Walking in God's protection means living with the assurance that He is always with us, guarding and guiding us. It is a call to live boldly and confidently in His love.
Psalm 23:4 (NLT): "Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me."
This beloved verse from the Shepherd’s Psalm assures us of God’s presence in our darkest times. The rod and staff are symbols of protection and guidance, offering comfort and security even in life’s most challenging moments.
When we face our darkest valleys, let’s remember that God is with us, guiding and protecting us. His presence brings comfort and courage to face any situation without fear.
Isaiah 54:17 (NLT): "But in that coming day no weapon turned against you will succeed. You will silence every voice raised up to accuse you. These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the Lord; their vindication will come from me. I, the Lord, have spoken!"
Consider a soldier fully equipped with armour, confident and unafraid because he knows he is protected. In the same way, we can navigate life’s battles knowing God’s shield of love surrounds us.
God promises His people victory over their adversaries. No weapon or accusation formed against them will prevail. This is a divine assurance of protection and vindication for those who serve Him.
John Piper: "God is always doing 10,000 things in your life, and you may be aware of three of them."
We can live with the confidence that God defends and protects us against all forms of opposition. Let’s trust in His promise and stand firm in our faith, knowing He will vindicate us.
Conclusion
God’s blessings, His encompassing love, His faithful promises, and His divine protection are the themes we’ve explored today. Each point reminds us of the depth of God’s commitment to us and His desire for us to live in the fullness of His grace.
Application:
God’s word is rich with promises and assurances of His love, protection, and faithfulness. Whether we are delighting in His law, finding refuge under His wings, or walking through the darkest valleys, we can trust that He is with us, guiding, protecting, and loving us every step of the way.
Embrace His Blessings: Recognise the blessings God has bestowed upon you and be thankful daily.
Rest in His Love: Trust that God’s love surrounds you, protecting and guiding you.
Stand on His Promises: Cling to the certainty of God’s promises, knowing He is faithful.
Walk in His Protection: Live boldly, knowing that God’s shield of love is ever-present.
Call to Action:
This week, reflect on these truths. Spend time in prayer, asking God to help you see His blessings, feel His love, trust His promises, and walk confidently in His protection.
Reflect on God’s unwavering love, His faithful promises, and His protective presence in your life.
Let His truth transform your life and the way you interact with others. Share these truths with someone who needs encouragement, demonstrating the love and faithfulness of God.
May we all leave here today with a renewed sense of God’s love and a commitment to live in the light of His blessings. Amen.
