God whispered to me when I quieted my heart before Him this morning. I was bringing my burdens to Him and asking for wisdom. There is a long list of urgent issues and needs in which I am desperate to see his heart. After reviewing a few prophetic words that our small group had given to me last week, there was a theme that stood out.

“Remember who you are, you are the strong protector of the people.” This is just what my first and middle names (Andrew Edward) literally mean. While this was a good reminder to me, it was at this point I sensed a quick little interjection of the Holy Spirit. This is what I felt God was saying to me… “This is true of you, but don’t take it on as a burden. These qualities in you are only a reflection of the fact that I (the Lord) am the real protector of the people.”

Immediately I felt relieved. The pressure is off to have to run around and shield everyone I love and all of the people in our church. It’s an impossible task that you can spend your whole life working toward, only to find that it is Jesus’ job to protect His people.

2 Thessalonians 3:3 (NIV) says, “3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.”

Psalm 46:1-2 (NIV) 1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.

When you are feeling anxious because you realize that you can’t control things around you, and you’re unsure about what the future might bring – remember that Jesus is your protector. It is my prayer that I will reflect this characteristic of God’s well. Sure, we should advocate for others, fight for justice, speak the truth in love and be willing to sacrifice to protect and help others – but the battle is not ours, but God’s (2 Chronicles 20:15).

This is a season of unprecedented fear and worry with all the demands of the fall pushing in on us and an election that is more volatile than any I can remember. In the midst of all of the noise, the Lord is whispering, “I am still in control. I am still on my throne. I am your protector. I will guard you and keep you. I will give you perspective. If you seek me, you will find me. Take courage, I am your protector.”

-Andrew Burchett

Lead Pastor