Devotional 6 - Protection

            During one of my trips to the jungle with another missionary family’s team, there was a group of us traveling in a Bronco down the mountain. We were farther ahead of the rest of the team that was coming. Then all I can remember was that the road gave way. There was a small creek beneath the road and under one of the tires the road just disappeared leaving us tilted backwards over this creek on the side of the mountain. We all got out of the Bronco safely and without any more of the road giving way. I don’t remember being very scared, but I do remember the two American girls with us being pretty terrified and the driver had to tell some funny local stories to help calm down their fears (this is where the anaconda story came from which is another day).

            Since we were far ahead of the group we mostly had to just wait for a passing truck or vehicle that could help pull us out. Soon we heard in the distance a large vehicle approaching. When it turned the curve we were thrilled to see a John Deere construction vehicle. I cannot remember exactly what kind it was, but it definitely was big and able enough to help us out. They barely looked at us and passed by without stopping to see if they could help. Next another John Deere vehicle came by and did the same thing. Thankfully our group caught up with us and we joined them down the mountain to the nearest village. There we found a tow truck that went back and pull the Bronco out.

            It wasn’t until I got back home and shared the story with my parents that they told me that some lady back in the States was told specifically to pray for me and it had something to do with water. Even now I did not think of the situation as very perilously, but it probably was or could have gotten worse. God had given me a peace and confidence in Him that He is watching out for us. 2 Thessalonians 3:3 NIV says “ But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.”

            Trusting in God’s protecting hand is not easy. Life doesn’t always go perfectly and there are many times we don’t even know God had His hand of protection over us. Keep in mind no matter where you live or what situation you get into today or in the future, God is there! Thank Him for his protection even if you do not see it or feel it.