Topical Bible: Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Defeating the Counsels of Enemies

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Topical Encyclopedia

The theme of divine protection for the saints, particularly in overcoming the schemes and counsels of their enemies, is a recurring motif throughout the Scriptures. This protection is not merely a passive shield but an active intervention by God to ensure the triumph of His people over adversarial plots.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament provides numerous accounts where God intervenes to protect His chosen ones from the machinations of their enemies. One of the most illustrative examples is found in the account of Joseph. Despite the evil intentions of his brothers, who sold him into slavery, God used their actions for a greater purpose. In Genesis 50:20 , Joseph reassures his brothers, saying, "As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people."

Similarly, in the narrative of King David, we see divine protection in action. Saul, driven by jealousy, sought David's life on numerous occasions. Yet, God consistently thwarted Saul's plans, preserving David for his future role as king. In 1 Samuel 23:14 , it is recorded, "And David stayed in the wilderness strongholds and in the hills of the Desert of Ziph. Day after day Saul searched for him, but God did not deliver David into his hands."

Divine Wisdom and Counsel

The wisdom of God is often contrasted with the futile counsels of the wicked. In Proverbs 21:30 , it is declared, "No wisdom, no understanding, and no counsel can prevail against the LORD." This verse underscores the futility of human schemes when set against divine wisdom. The saints are assured that God's plans will always supersede those of their adversaries.

New Testament Assurance

The New Testament continues this theme, emphasizing the spiritual protection afforded to believers. In Romans 8:31 , the Apostle Paul writes, "What then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" This rhetorical question highlights the ultimate security believers have in Christ, who intercedes on their behalf.

The early church also experienced this divine protection. In Acts 5:38-39 , Gamaliel, a respected Pharisee, advises the Sanhedrin regarding the apostles, "So in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or endeavor is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God." This passage illustrates the recognition, even among some opponents, of the futility of opposing God's work.

Spiritual Armor and Warfare

Ephesians 6:10-18 provides a vivid depiction of the spiritual armor available to believers, enabling them to stand firm against the devil's schemes. The passage exhorts believers to "put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Ephesians 6:11). This armor includes truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer, equipping the saints to withstand and overcome spiritual adversaries.

Conclusion

Throughout the biblical narrative, the protection of the saints is assured by God's sovereign power and wisdom. Whether through direct intervention, the provision of spiritual armor, or the ultimate triumph of divine purposes, the Scriptures affirm that the counsels of enemies cannot prevail against those whom God protects.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 8:10
Take counsel together, and it shall come to nothing; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God is with us.
Torrey's Topical Textbook