I'm safe

In the midst of a drought, where the dry air and crackling leaves suggest a constant state of alarm, nature is once again forcing us to consider our safety and well-being. Just ten kilometers away, a forest fire is spreading its devastating power and is inexorably approaching. I realized the urgency of our situation when my phone vibrated with a message asking me if I was safe from the fire. My answer: I'm safe, but caught my attention. How do we really fare in the midst of threats? What is safe?

Safety from danger, protection from abuse, or freedom from persecution—all of this can take many forms. This reminds me of the Apostle Paul, who lived under the constant threat of persecution, just as many Christians experience today. He said: “I have traveled extensively; I have been in danger by rivers, in danger from robbers, in danger from my own people, in danger from Gentiles, in danger in cities, in danger in deserts, in danger at sea, in danger from false brothers.” (2. Kor 11,26)There is no guarantee that our lives as Christians will remain free of challenges.

We can try to rely on our own safety, but as the saying goes: “He who trusts in his own understanding is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will escape.” (Spr 28,26)I can't stop a wildfire alone. There are measures I can take to protect myself and my family, such as clearing our property of weeds and excess vegetation. We can all follow safety protocols to prevent fires. It's important to be prepared to get to safety in an emergency.

David asks for God's protection: "Preserve me from the snare they have laid for me and from the trap of the evildoers." (Ps 141,9)He was hunted by King Saul, who wanted to kill him. Although David went through a great trial, God was with him, and David was certain of His presence and help. What has God promised us? Has He promised that we will have a life without problems? Has He promised us that no physical harm will come to us? Has He promised us riches, as some would have us believe? What has God promised us? “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Mt 28,20)God has also promised that nothing can separate us from his love: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Röm 8,38-39).

Am I safe?

I have my security in Jesus Christ. He makes me feel safe and secure! The situations in this life are constantly changing and constantly changing. Although I am not safe from forest fires, abuse or persecution. In the midst of this world, which constantly confronts us with challenges, we are constantly reminded: We should not lose courage.

Dear reader, in a world full of uncertainties and challenges, it may often seem as if there is no safe place. But always remember the words of Jesus: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (Joh 16,33)Let this faith strengthen your heart. Know that, no matter how stormy your life may become, true peace and security can be found in Jesus. Remain steadfast, courageous, and know that you are not alone.

by Anne Gillam

More articles about security:

Carefree in God  The certainty of salvation