I am praising God that yesterday afternoon, my son Rob, returned home from a year in Afghanistan safe and sound!  Not a day went by that the danger he was in didn’t come to my mind.  I remember pleading with God to put His hedge of protection around Rob and his men and bring them home alive.  I know many of you also lifted them up in prayer diligently this past year and our whole family thanks you.Of course, I know there was a lot of skill and training that helped them stay safe too.  Can I brag a minute?  Rob received a bronze star for his meritorious service for leading his men on I think he said 70 safe missions without incident.  His expertise, ability to outsmart the enemy, and his concern for his men was apparently obvious to those who nominated him for the award.  It makes his Momma real proud!  But let’s get back to the story.  Whatever the case might be—whether it was circumstances behind the scenes, great skill, etc. ensuring their safety; as a praying woman, I have to give praise and honor to God for their protection.  When I hear stories about IEDs going off in front of or behind their convoy; I have to stop and be thankful that they weren’t on it when it decided to erupt.  I see God’s Hand in that.  I have to be thankful that Rob was appointed to serve in the specific location where he served.  It seemed to be a protected place so to speak. As there were explosions all around him at any given minute of the day, he and his men were unharmed where they were.  For that I say, “Praise God!”

The other day we had threatening storms all around our area here in Ohio.  I was finding the news on the TV so I could be informed while I made the mental note to stay inside as this looked like a bad one.  I stood in my kitchen and watched as the winds picked up and lightening lit up the skies to the north and to the south.  I could hear the thunder in the distance.  This went on for quite some time.  Friends were talking about the torrential rains they were experiencing at the same time I was watching it but not getting it.  Our yard was dry.  As I was watching, I felt God’s Spirit speak to me that as the storms rage around me, I am under the umbrella of God’s protection.  I need not be afraid.  I need not worry.  I just need to keep praying and trusting God to get me through—even when I feel threatened.

Yesterday when the guys were getting off the plane, many came to welcome them home.  There were cheers, flags waving and many tears shed as each soldier exited the plane to the arms of their loved ones.  It was quite the homecoming welcome!  I dream of the day that we as Christian soldiers get the same “welcome home” as our soldiers got yesterday.  I can see our loved ones now cheering us and welcoming us into the place that has been prepared just for us.  It will be a glorious day!

Is your life storming right now?  Are you tired and weary of the battles all around you?  Do you trust that God hears your prayers and will keep you safe from the enemy who lurks nearby?  Ask Him to put a hedge of protection around your home and family or whatever it is that is being threatened.  Just as I believe He did for my son and illustrated for me in my own backyard, He has the power to keep you safe and out of harm’s way too.  Trust Him.  Lean on Him.  Never stop fighting until you’re home…safe and sound…for eternity!  There, the final medal of honor awaits you.

Psalm 5:11 (NIV)
But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.