Surrounded By His Love: Living In God's Blessings And Protection Psalm 5:12 Series

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.