He Protects

Psalm 23 You will find all through Scripture that the shepherd provides and protects. If I didn’t believe this, I couldn’t have stepped into the ministry 48 years ago. I was in a lucrative position in a secure job, and the Lord says, “You ought to be a preacher.” He called me to step out of the security of that and just totally rely on Him. But my great concern wasn’t for me, but for my family. We were going to be sent places we didn’t know, live in houses we didn’t own, and not be given much to live on. It was scary, as one who was striving so hard to be a good provider to just take off into what appeared to be an insecure unknown future. I had to tell Him, “Lord, I’ll do anything for you. I have found life in You. I want to serve you, but what about my family?” He replied, “Joel, you know I love you, don’t you?” I said, “Yes, and I’m so grateful.” He said, “Well, I want you to know that I love your family more than you do. I’ll make sure they’re okay. I’ll provide for them, I’ll provide for you.” Then I was able to say, “Okay. I’ll leave them up to you.” God doesn’t go back on His word. He has provided, and He has protected.