Divine EncouragementSample

A heavenly protector

“Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go” (Genesis 28:15)

Do we need God’s mercies on the road we travel? Here are the finest—God's presence and protection. We require both. And in every place, they are assured when we journey in response to duty, not merely following our own desires. Why view relocation to another land as a burdensome necessity when it's ordained by God’s will? Regardless of location, believers are travelers and strangers, yet in every corner, the Lord is their refuge, as He has been for His followers throughout history. We may lack the protection of an earthly king, but when God promises, “I will keep you,” true danger is absent. This promise is a cherished passport for the traveler and a heavenly companion for the emigrant.

Jacob had never ventured beyond his father's homestead before; he was a mama's boy, unlike his adventurous brother. Nonetheless, he embarked on a journey, accompanied by God. With hardly any belongings and no company, he was escorted by a nobler entourage than any prince. Even as he slumbered under the open sky, angels watched over him, and the Lord spoke to him. If the Lord commands our departure, let us say with our Lord Jesus, “Rise! Let us go!”