God's Protection

I am continually reminded of God's protection. On July 4, my husband and two kids got together with my sister and her two kids to shoot fireworks. Others in the neighborhood and surrounding neighborhoods were also shooting fireworks and there was quite a bit of noise. We stopped to clean up a bit before continuing the festivities. My six year old was on the sidewalk in front of our home picking up trash when she screamed, "Snake!" and ran back to our driveway. The baby copperhead was within inches of her feet. It was dark, so I am so thankful that she saw the poisonous snake and got away before it bit her.

I do not recall any conversation with her about what to do if you encounter a snake, but I am sure running is not the advice I would give. I have always heard you cannot outrun a snake and they follow vibrations. However, she did just the right thing under those circumstances and by the grace of God the snake did not bite her or chase after her. I have no doubt that God protected her. He provided for her safety. He was there. God must have whispered in her ear to run and told the snake to be still.

"Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare of the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I am trusting him. For he will rescue you from every trap and protect you from the fatal plague. He will shield you with his wings. He will shelter you with his feathers. His faithful promises are your armor and protection. Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor fear the dangers of the day, nor dread the plague that stalks in darkness, nor the disaster that strikes at midday. Though a thousand fall at your side, though ten thousand are dying around you, these evils will not touch you. But you will see it with your eyes; you will see how the wicked are punished. If you make the Lord your refuge, if you make the Most High your shelter, no evil will conquer you; no plague will come near your dwelling. For he orders his angels to protect you wherever you go. They will hold you with their hands to keep you from striking your foot on a stone. You will trample down lions and poisonous snakes; you will crush fierce lions and serpents under your feet! The Lord says, 'I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue them and honor them. I will satisfy them with a long life and give them my salvation.'" Psalms 91.

I know sometimes we will get hurt or injured and am not claiming that suffering will not occur to those who love the Lord with all their heart. He tells us in His word we will face troubles in this life. However, God is always there. And though we may not know why, sometimes He does intervene on our behalf. There may be plenty of scientific reasons or logical reasons as to why my little girl was not bitten by the snake, but I believe God's hand protected her. God is amazing and His provision constantly amazes me. He protects us even when we do not even realize we need protecting.