The Doubly-Guarded Life

The Word of God assures Believers (the Bride of Christ) that we are “being guarded (garrisoned) by the power of God through faith, for (the completion of our) salvation ready to be revealed in the last time” (1 Peter 1:5). 

Not only do we have this outward guard, we are given an inward guard… “Be anxious for nothing; but in everything, through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, shall guard (garrison) your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6,7)

The world cannot see either of these “double-guards,” but they can see our outward demeanor of confidence, and our inward demeanor of peace – both of which are signs to this troubled world.

No Christian is to talk the “doom and gloom” of the world. God told Isaiah, who was surrounded by armies without and a coup within, not to share the panic-stricken walk and talk of unbelievers… “Do not fear their fear, nor be afraid. But set apart the Lord of Hosts Himself; and let Him be your ‘dread’ and let Him be your ‘fear.’ And He shall be for a Sanctuary…” (Isaiah 8:12-14).

In Isaiah’s time, God was at work bringing “Emmanuel” into the world, and Isaiah’s outward confidence and inner peace was a ‘sign’ to those around Him of unshakeable faith in God’s purposes, timing, and love. In our day, Emmanuel is coming back into the world, and our testimony of confidence and peace ought to be even greater.

Like stars in the night, our high calling is to shine the power and love of God, standing out in the darkness with the unmovable Light of Truth. It’s good to ask ourselves, what do people hear and see in me?

(Devotional by Lisa Cataford)