TRUSTING GOD AS OUR PROVIDER AND PROTECTOR By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Matthew 6:31-33
"Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."
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INTRODUCTION
Trusting God as our provider and protector is a fundamental principle of faith. In a world filled with uncertainty, fear, and self-reliance, many have forgotten that it is God who sustains and shields His people. Society today is overwhelmed by worries about material provision and safety, leading many to rely on their own strength, wealth, and human strategies. However, God calls His people to place their trust in Him and not in worldly systems. This teaching emphasizes the need for unwavering faith in God as the ultimate source of provision and protection.
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GOD IS OUR TRUE PROVIDER
Philippians 4:19
"And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
Many people live in fear and anxiety, constantly worrying about their future. They struggle to accumulate wealth and resources, thinking that these will guarantee their security. However, the Bible assures us that God is our provider, and He knows what we need even before we ask Him. Trusting in Him brings peace and assurance, for He is faithful to provide for His children.
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THE DANGERS OF SELF-RELIANCE AND MATERIALISM
Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."
Many people reject God's provision and seek security through material wealth, insurance policies, or personal efforts. They put their trust in riches rather than in God. This often leads to stress, broken relationships, and even premature death. God warns against placing our confidence in earthly possessions instead of Him. True provision and security come only from God.
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GOD IS OUR PROTECTOR
Psalm 91:1-2
"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.’"
In a world filled with danger, crime, and instability, many seek protection through human means—security guards, weapons, and alliances. However, true safety comes from God. He is our shield and fortress, capable of delivering us from every danger. Those who trust in Him are protected from unseen dangers and spiritual attacks.
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THE CONSEQUENCES OF DISTRUSTING GOD
Jeremiah 17:5-6
"Thus says the LORD: ‘Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart departs from the LORD. For he shall be like a shrub in the desert, and shall not see when good comes, but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land which is not inhabited.’"
When people reject God's provision and protection, they fall into fear, anxiety, and spiritual blindness. Many end up in despair, suffering, and even destruction because they refuse to trust in God. Their self-reliance leads them to exhaustion and failure. God warns that those who rely on human strength will ultimately be disappointed.
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GOD DESIRES A RELATIONSHIP, NOT RELIGIOUS RITUALS
Isaiah 29:13
"Therefore the Lord said: ‘Inasmuch as these people draw near with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but have removed their hearts far from Me, and their fear toward Me is taught by the commandment of men.’"
God does not desire a mere religious observance but a deep, personal relationship with His people. Many replace true faith with empty religious rituals, thinking they can appease God with routine practices. However, God seeks hearts that trust Him fully and walk in obedience. True provision and protection are found in a genuine relationship with God.
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SUMMARY
God is the ultimate provider and protector of His people. Those who trust in Him will never lack, while those who rely on human strength will face disappointments. God calls His people to seek Him first, live in faith, and avoid the traps of self-reliance, materialism, and fear.
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CONCLUSION
Trusting in God for provision and protection is not an option but a necessity for every believer. He desires His people to walk in faith, free from fear and anxiety. While the world is filled with uncertainties, those who trust in God will experience His peace, guidance, and supernatural provision.
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CALL TO ACTION
Examine your heart and ask yourself: Do you fully trust God as your provider and protector? Are you relying on your strength, wealth, or human security? Surrender your worries to God, and commit to walking in faith, knowing that He is faithful to take care of you.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Psalm 37:25
"I have been young, and now am old; Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, Nor his descendants begging bread."
God is faithful and will never forsake His people. Trust in Him, and you will witness His mighty hand in your life.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have never surrendered your life to Jesus, today is the day of salvation. Pray this prayer sincerely:
Lord Jesus, I come before You as a sinner in need of Your grace. I repent of my sins and ask You to cleanse me. I believe that You died on the cross for my sins and rose again for my salvation. I surrender my life to You and ask You to be my Lord and Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to trust You completely. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Welcome to the family of God! Find a Bible-believing church and grow in your faith. Trust in God, for He is your provider and protector.
