There are moments in life when we look back and realize how close we were to tragedy, how the trials we faced could have destroyed us, and how we might have lost hope had it not been for the Lord. Psalm 124 captures this sentiment perfectly: “If it had not been the Lord who was on our side,” the psalmist declares, recognizing the divine protection that brought them through peril.
As believers, we can testify to the countless times God has shielded us from harm, delivered us from the jaws of despair, and paved a way where there seemed to be no way. This article explores how God’s intervention transforms our lives and why we must continually acknowledge His mighty hand in our journey.
There’s a powerful truth embedded in the phrase “If it had not been for the Lord.” It invites us to reflect on God’s sovereignty and grace in our lives. We live in a world full of uncertainties, and the challenges we face often seem insurmountable. Yet, through every trial, God remains in control. Perhaps you’ve encountered seasons where all hope seemed lost—financial crises, health scares, relationship breakdowns, or spiritual dry spells. And yet, here you are. Not because of your own strength or wisdom, but because the Lord was on your side.
The psalmist in Psalm 124 speaks for all of us: “If the Lord had not been on our side…they would have swallowed us alive” (Psalm 124:2-3). This vivid imagery reminds us of the fierce battles we face, both seen and unseen. And yet, time and again, we find ourselves standing—not because of what we have done, but because God has been our defender.
Throughout Scripture, we see numerous examples of God’s intervention when His people were at their most vulnerable. The Israelites crossing the Red Sea is one of the most iconic examples. If it had not been for the Lord parting the waters, they would have been overtaken by Pharaoh’s army. But God made a way when there was no way, turning what seemed like an impossible situation into a story of miraculous deliverance (Exodus 14:21-22).
Similarly, in the book of Daniel, we read of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who faced the fiery furnace because of their faith. Had it not been for the Lord, they would have been consumed by the flames. But God showed up in the fire, delivering them unharmed (Daniel 3:25-27). These stories serve as powerful reminders that, no matter how dire our circumstances, God is always able to intervene.
In our own lives, we all have personal testimonies that echo the psalmist’s words: “If it had not been for the Lord…” Perhaps it was the time you narrowly escaped an accident, the moment you received unexpected provision when you needed it most, or the instance you felt God’s peace in the middle of overwhelming anxiety. These are moments of divine intervention that show us just how much God cares for us.
Think back on a situation in your own life where you were at the end of your rope, unsure of how you would make it through. What changed? Where did the breakthrough come from? More often than not, it was God orchestrating events behind the scenes, aligning people and circumstances for your deliverance.
While we often see God’s hand in dramatic moments of rescue, it’s essential to recognize that His grace and protection are also at work in the ordinary. We may not always be aware of the dangers we’ve been spared or the blessings we’ve received. But God is always working in our lives, guarding us from harm and providing for our needs.
Psalm 121:3-4 reminds us that God “will not let your foot slip—He who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” God’s protection is constant, even when we are unaware of it. If it had not been for the Lord, we might not have survived those subtle dangers that never made it to our awareness.
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Recognizing God’s divine hand in our lives should lead us to a place of deep gratitude. When we understand that it was God’s intervention that saved us, we can’t help but be thankful. Gratitude shifts our focus from our struggles to God’s faithfulness, from our weaknesses to His strength. Psalm 124 concludes with a declaration of praise: “Our help is in the name of the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 124:8). We, too, should echo this sentiment, continuously thanking God for His ongoing presence and intervention in our lives.
Knowing that God has been with us in the past should give us confidence for the future. The same God who delivered you before is the same God who walks with you today. Whatever challenges lie ahead, remember that if God is for you, nothing can stand against you (Romans 8:31).
The next time you face a difficult situation, remind yourself of the times God has brought you through in the past. His track record is flawless, and He is faithful to do it again. “If it had not been for the Lord” is not just a reflection of the past—it’s a promise for the future.
In moments of reflection, when you recall how God has saved, sustained, and protected you, don’t hesitate to declare, “If it had not been for the Lord!” Let this be a testimony of God’s faithfulness and a reminder of His ever-present help in times of trouble.
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As you continue your journey of faith, hold fast to this truth: God is always working on your behalf. Even when the circumstances seem impossible, His power is more than enough to bring you through. Trust Him, praise Him, and remember that the Lord who has been with you will never forsake you.
