Guarded by Grace
Even in darkness, the path is guarded and lit by His presence.
He guards the steps of His faithful ones, but the wicked perish in darkness; for by his own strength shall no man prevail.
— 1 Samuel 2:9 BSB
A.B. Simpson reminds us today that the Christian life, especially when lived in deeper union with Christ, is not exempt from warfare—it invites it. As we draw nearer to God, the opposition often grows stronger. The enemy does not waste arrows on those who are not advancing. But for those walking in obedience and singleness of heart, God promises protection.
There is a dangerous presumption in thinking we have “arrived,” as if maturity exempts us from vigilance. On the contrary, spiritual maturity is marked by humble watchfulness. While we walk in the confident joy of our union with Christ, we also remain alert—not anxious, but aware—because we live in a spiritual battlefield.
Simpson exhorts us not to rely on our own strength, but to stay in the safe harbor of God’s guarding grace. This doesn’t mean tiptoeing through life in fear. It means living in confident dependence on the One who never sleeps and who promises to keep our feet from slipping. The life of Christ in us is not vulnerable to the enemy; it is victorious. And the more we draw from His life within, the more we walk in peace and clarity—even when darkness gathers near.
Personalized Journal Entry (In the Voice of the Holy Spirit through Scripture)
I am your keeper. I guard your steps and establish your way, not by your might nor by your power, but by My Spirit. I have made you blameless in Christ and I am able to keep you from stumbling. As you walk with Me, I order your steps and delight in your path. Even when you trip, you will not be hurled headlong, for I uphold you with My hand.
The battle is not yours—it is Mine. Your strength will never prevail against the enemy, but I have already overcome him. Your victory is not achieved by striving, but by resting in the triumph of Christ in you. Stay alert, yes, but not in fear. Be watchful, not because you are vulnerable, but because your heart is attuned to Me. I will always lead you in triumph, making known through you the fragrance of the knowledge of Christ.
Keep your heart pure and your eyes single—set upon Me. In that gaze is your safety, your peace, and your joy. Do not worry about falling. You are held, guarded, and kept by My power through faith. My grace surrounds your path like a protective flame, and My peace guides your feet like the sure steps of a dancer, moving in rhythm with My will. I will never leave you nor forsake you.
(1 Samuel 2:9, Zechariah 4:6, Jude 24, Psalm 37:23–24, 2 Chronicles 20:15, John 16:33, 2 Corinthians 2:14, Matthew 6:22, 1 Peter 1:5, Hebrews 13:5)
Prayer (In My Voice)
Father, thank You for the confidence I have in Your faithfulness. You have placed my feet on solid ground and filled me with the life of Your Son. I am not watching for danger out of fear—I am watching for Your direction in love. You have already overcome every enemy, and I rejoice that no weapon formed against me shall prosper. Thank You for being my Keeper. I walk in Your peace today, knowing I’m never alone, never vulnerable, and never without Your guidance. My heart rests in You.
Credit:
Devotional by A.B. Simpson from Days of Heaven on Earth
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