Standing Guard Over Our Hearts and Minds
Just like a soldier, God is standing guard over our hearts and minds. He wants to protect and defend those areas that are especially vulnerable to attack from the enemy.
Years ago, when I visited London, I recall watching the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace. These soldiers stand guard to protect the palace and royal residents from any harm or invasion. The changing of the guards has a 520-year history and is a ceremony full of pomp and circumstance. The soldiers are focused, stoic, and precise, in their movements as power is transferred from one guard to the next.
God is Our Protector and Defender
In Book of Philippians, we also find an example of a guard. Here, God is positioning Himself, like a soldier, extending His peace, and protecting our hearts and minds from fear and anxiety. Thankfully, the Lord is always at His post, standing guard over our hearts and minds. He never leaves us. He will never transfer power or authority to someone else.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your request be known by God. And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-8
Military Imagery
God’s Word is filled with military imagery. Apparently, God knows that our faith journey will be a spiritual battle. Therefore, we need to be prepared and equipped for combat. Without a doubt, our minds and hearts are particularly susceptible. Satan, our greatest enemy, knows where he can do the most damage.
Standing Guard Over Our Hearts and Minds
However, we should not be afraid because God is our defender. He is our secret weapon, fighting on our behalf. God goes before us, behind us, and with us, in battle. By God’s power, we are protected.
But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:3
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for being my protector and defender. I can walk in confidence and peace because I know You are at my side. Amen.
Questions to Consider:
- As you read God’s Word, begin writing down the military terms you read. Why is it important to view God in these terms?
- How has God defended you today?
Standing Guard