A ship carrying H.G. Spafford’s wife and four daughters sank on their way to Europe. Later, on a different ship, Spafford came to the spot where his family met tragedy. Filled with grief, he bowed in prayer and wrote “When peace like a river attends my way. When sorrow like sea billows roll; whatever my lot you have taught me to say, it is well with my soul.” That was also the sentiment of the author of Psalm 91. The psalmist knew pain from living in a broken world. But in the midst of uncertainties he could say, “This I declare about the LORD: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him. For He will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly disease. He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.” Despite the chaos in our world, children of God take comfort in their relationship with Him. God offers to protect us from evil and the evil one that lives in the unseen spiritual realm. God preserves us for His eternal purposes. But as Jesus told Satan, we must never put the LORD to a foolish test! Rather, we trust Him to guide and protect us in the way He deems best.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
