Trusting God: A Daily Routine for Protection
As I was putting on my sunscreen the other day, I started to remember, with frustration, how many years I had not used sunscreen because getting a beautiful bronze tan was more important to me. Now, I am diligent in my skincare routine—from facial washes to toners and serums, and of course, sunscreen. While I was getting ready for the day, I was immediately stuck on the similarities between sunscreen and scripture.
As evident as it is, the most important part of a sunscreen is that it protects skin from the sun. When we apply it, we trust that the product will do what it promises. In the same way, when we read the Bible, we need to believe that the Word of God is truthful, can be trusted, relied on, and protects us from things and people that are damaging.
In John 17:17, Jesus prayed for his disciples and asked that God would "Sanctify them by your truth. Your Word is truth." Jesus knew that God, who He is and what He says, is infallibly true and worthy of our faith and confidence.
Like sunscreen, Scripture provides protection. This protection happens with the presence of God in our lives. Psalm 91:4 emphasizes the safety we experience when we dwell in God's presence. It says, "He shall cover you with His feathers, And under His wings shall you take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and rampart." In this one verse, we see that nothing can overcome the safety we have when God is our refuge and shield.
The Bible, like sunscreen, can also have multiple benefits. While sunscreen can serve as a moisturizer or even help with aging, the Bible also offers numerous benefits and applications.
"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."
-2 Timothy 3:16-17
Just as sunscreen should be used daily to work its best, the Bible should be used every day as a resource for worship and intimacy with God.
"Sing to the Lord all the earth; Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples. For the Lord is great and greatly to be praised.” (NKJV)
-1 Chronicles 16:23-25
The fact is that there are numerous things we should use daily to keep our physical bodies protected and functioning well. Yet, these things are all temporary, which is why, of all the things we do daily, reading the Bible, spending time with God, and worshiping Him are more important than anything else. Only these things are eternal, and only these things are truly trustworthy and give protection and purpose.