Guest Post by Nancy Lewis-Shelton
“The Lord watches over you – the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm – he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” Psalm 121:5-8 (NIV)
One vacation, before the days of the GPS, our car developed a problem. My friend Joyce and I headed toward the rental agency for assistance. Before long, we realized we were lost in a possibly dangerous neighborhood. To escape, Joyce turned onto the next street but pulled over when a police siren blared behind us. An officer came to the car and asked for paperwork. A second one stopped to observe a crowd of boys and young men beginning to gather in a nearby parking lot. Joyce explained that we were on our way to return our vehicle but got lost. The gang began to yell obscenities. Soon, both officers were at our car window to insist we not travel down that street. One of them stated that we could follow their cruiser to our desired destination. As we sped away, I thanked God for our rescuers. Soon we were on our way in a different car to a safer part of the city.
One of my friends insisted that God had nothing to do with the policemen finding us, but I didn’t believe her. “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV) God constantly watches over his children. What could have turned into an ugly and dangerous situation was averted by his merciful hand upon us. He sent officers to redirect us to a safer route. “In all your ways submit to Him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:6 (NIV)
Each day, I have to make a decision to travel toward or away from God’s protection. If I am careless or make a wrong or unsafe choice, with His guidance, I am able to resist the world’s evils and find guidance in this changing world. Just as police officers assist travelers who start down the wrong road, God is available in times of confusion, doubt, and fear. He may even intervene when I take a wrong turn and send assistance when I least expect it.
Prayer: Thank you, God, for always being nearby to guide us in times of danger or crisis. With your guidance, we can stay calm and make good choices. Amen
Nancy Lewis-Shelton retired from public education after years as a classroom teacher and school counselor. Published work includes devotionals and fiction/non-fiction short stories for adults and children. Recent publications include two fiction novellas about Cookie, a pet sitter. Volunteer activities include church senior choir, elementary school Reading Buddy (Council of Churches), and a local oral storytelling group. When she’s not writing or volunteering, you might find her digging in the garden, playing bridge, reading, enjoying events with her daughter’s family, or participating in activities with her pet therapy dog, Robin