Remembering That God Guides And Protects

In review of Isaiah 52:12 it says, “You will not leave in a hurry, running for your lives. For the Lord will go ahead of you; yes, the God of Israel will protect you from behind.”

Bottom Line:

You won’t need to leave in a hurry, for the Lord is ahead of you and will protect you from behind.

What this means to me:

I will not need to be in a hurry or run, for the Lord will go ahead of me and protect me from behind.

I understand that Jerusalem was God's holy city, the city with God's Temple. But the people of Judah experienced ruin instead of prosperity, destruction instead of liberty. Because of their sins, the people suffered. But God promised to restore Jerusalem as a holy city where sinners cannot enter. God reigns, therefore I can put my entire faith and confidence in his ability to control the course of history and my life. I no longer need to leave in a hurry or in haste for my life. For the Lord goes ahead of me and even protects me from behind.

God says that the feet of those who bring good news are "beautiful." It is a wonderful privilege to be able to share God's Good News with others; his news of redemption, salvation and peace.

At this point in history the people did not have to leave in fearful haste because Cyrus, God's anointed decreed that the Jewish exiles could return safely to Jerusalem. They had the king's approval and his guaranteed protection. More importantly, the Lord would go ahead to point the way and be behind them to protect them.

Jehovah Shammah means “the God who is there.” He is there when I need Him, and He is good all the time; yesterday, today, and forever.

His angels go before me to prepare my way, and behind me to be my rear guard. He guides and provides. He leads in the paths of righteousness for His namesake. He restores my soul and makes my path straight. He is as close as the mention of His name.

Fortunately I serve a God who cannot fail. He makes streams in the desert and turns my darkest night into a golden day. When I’m feeling alone or afraid, He is right beside me.

Have confidence in Christ, with God on my side, all I have to do is sling the rock and the giant is going to fail.