Now that we have a basis for understanding that our relationship is not intended singularly, we can focus on how those relationships can strengthen you personally. Faith provides the spiritual foundation necessary for the Trinity to pass on the knowledge and wisdom necessary to “see” the invisible. Once the foundation is laid, you will be able to understand how Deity has built protective hedges around you, which are necessary to ward off the invisible spirits sent to invade, distract, and deceive you.
Imagining something invisible is difficult at best. So, let’s look at the word pictures Christ used to illustrate this unseen dimension in John, Chapter 10. Verses 1 – 18. Please read it now. Christ uses sheep in His example because they have no natural defensive instincts against a predator’s attack. Sheep cannot even run very fast! I believe Christ used that analogy because of our inability to see the invisible or Kingdom realm. Let’s consider a few points from that story.
In the first three verses, Christ says that even though believers are like defenseless sheep, they are protected by “watchmen” (Trinity, who assign your guardian angels. They are like armed guards who only open the gates, your protective spiritual hedges, to the One who will protect, defend, and improve your life. This protection allows you to keep your perspective when you are being tested. You can face tests with confidence and not allow them to become a temptation. Your friend, the Holy Spirit, will be close by to give you the discernment and insight necessary to achieve spiritual success. That has got to give you a profound sense of security! The key is to listen to His quiet voice. The loud and often easiest voice you hear is probably Satan, the one who has observed you, your history, and your family’s weaknesses for generations, and has every intention of using those weaknesses to destroy you.
In verses 4 and 5, you see the Son leading the way and clearing a path. In any war or battle, a scout always precedes the platoon of soldiers. That individual risks his or her life to be the eyes for the team. Christ became mankind’s scout. By facing all the possible challenges, we could face first, He assures us of His perfect empathy, and by having conquered every test, He provides the spotless example we are to emulate. Remember that Christ did not risk His life, but gave it willingly so grace could abound. The knowledge that His Plan provides you with a protected position, as well as an escape when you are overwhelmed, this should make you feel secure as you face life’s obstacles.
In verses 8 through 10, security is guaranteed for His sheep. This security provides believers with an ability to experience a fullness of life, which those trying to sneak or break into the Kingdom realm (people “playing church” or being religious) will never possess. The way you possess this security is by understanding Jeremiah’s prophecy, (31:33 – 34) spoken hundreds of years before Christ, to remind us that God would use our hearts and mind to keep us focused on His ways, rather than a book of laws.
Christ will not desert you when you fail per verses 11–13. Paul assures us why Christ won’t desert you in Romans 8:1 – 2. This promise provides believers with a mindset of our privileged uniqueness. We are different, and therefore we are cared for differently as it says in Romans 8:28 – 30.
Without being prideful, you should embrace your place of privilege! Your security is the same as it is for all believers throughout the ages (John 17:20). Whether a person is one or one hundred generations away from the time Christ walked the earth, he enjoys the same security. The same refuge available to Christ’s Apostles is available to you, now. John made a point to remove every doubt you might have when he said, “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may KNOW . . .” (1 John 5:13a) The emphatic use of the word “know” removes any doubt about any perceived distinctions among His children.
Love Dad