Self-Defense

I remember years ago taking some judo classes and then later some karate classes. I was learning to defend myself if I were to be attacked.  It makes me smile to remember getting into the little white, loose fitting outfit and doing my routines. I don’t remember “wipe on – wipe off” like The Karate Kid, but the routines were similar. I haven’t ever had to use any of my “ninja skills” in self-defense, and I’m not sure I could. A good bit of life has gone by since those classes.

Just about everyone I know would defend themselves in some way if they were threatened. I know people who are “packing heat” aka carrying a gun wherever they go. I know others who think nothing bad will ever happen. I try to assess situations and choose safety, I try hard not to be an easy target for someone who would want to harm me or my family. At the end of the day, I can’t control all of this. I was reminded this morning that God is my protector and my deliverer. Check this out…

⁶ I put no trust in my bow,
    my sword does not bring me victory;
⁷ but you give us victory over our enemies,
    you put our adversaries to shame.
⁸ In God we make our boast all day long,
    and we will praise your name for ever. (Psalm 44:6-8 NIV)

The Lord is my source of victory. I can’t possibly defend myself like He can. He is my Protector. He is my Provider. He is my Defender. If I trust in my weapons or my training, I will likely be beaten. When I trust in Him, I feel safe and protected.  I’m learning to trust the Lord to lead me away from danger and threats. I’m trusting Him to protect when I am threatened. He is God of Angel Armies – He goes before me and He comes in behind me. I love that song by Chris Tomlin.

You hear me when I call
You are my morning song
Though darkness fills the night
It cannot hide the light

Whom shall I fear

You crush the enemy
Underneath my feet
You are my sword and shield
Though troubles linger still

Whom shall I fear

I know who goes before me
I know who stands behind

The God of angel armies
Is always by my side

The one who reigns forever
He is a friend of mine

The God of angel armies
Is always by my side

My strength is in your name
For you alone can save
You will deliver me
Yours is the victory

Whom shall I fear
Whom shall I fear

And nothing formed against me shall stand
You hold the whole world in your hands
I’m holding on to your promises

You are faithful

Pressing On!

Dwayne