We must let the joy of the Lord be our strength.

We should desire to abide in God’s presence where there is not only protection but also “fullness of joy” (Psalm 16:11) It’s interesting to note that the Jews believe the Spirit of the Lord will not manifest Himself where there is sadness or depression. That makes sense because if we are sad or depressed, that means we’re not believing God. If we are afraid or feel defeated, we’re out of faith. In fact, part of the curse in Deuteronomy 28 says, “And thy life shall hang in doubt before thee; and thou shalt fear day and night, and shalt have none assurance of thy life” (verse 66).

if we think about it,negative emotions can’t get a foothold in our lives unless we turn away from the promises of God that say we’re delivered, that say God is our source of protection, provision and every other good thing.

The truth is that it boils down to the fact that we have to live by faith and trust in God. In Him we have already been delivered from the whole curse. We’re protected from danger, sickness, lack or any other bad thing that’s under the curse. God promised us in Psalm 91:14, “I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name” ( NLT).

We need to set our eyes on God because He is our help and deliverance (Psalm 121:1-2). We must make the decision to abide in the secret place and declare Him to be our refuge,spend time with God and His Word,meditate on scriptures about protection until we are confident that we have it.

Remember, we have a refuge or a covering that is greater than anything in the world and more powerful than any enemy that can come against us.

Let’s get a picture in our mind and heart of God encircling us, taking care of us and protecting us. The more we walk with Him and trust Him, the stronger that armour and protection become. And that’s something to rejoice about.

Erick Bouwmeester