Even Mr. Rogers Had Enemies: Finding God's Protection When You're Attacked

 

Mister Rogers Neighborhood

    This maybe surprising to you but even the kindest  of souls face opposition. If your like me you grew up watching Mr. Rogers neighborhood. It was one of the most beloved children's TV shows. His kind soft spoken demeanor was captivating. It was a great show that many kids enjoyed watching growing up. It was a program that taught children about the world around them, and emphasized the importance of treating others with respect and understanding. Sounds good right, I mean who could have a problem with a guy like that? 

    Well you will be surprised to hear that a news outlet once called him an "Evil, Evil Man." It sounds absurd, doesn't it? That's right the soft spoken and kind Mr. Rogers was according to this news agency was an "Evil, Evil  Man". Yet, it highlights a stark reality: even those who live to uplift and inspire can find themselves unfairly targeted, accused, or misunderstood.

    I think there are a lot of people who have felt it—the sting of false accusations, the discomfort of strained relationships, the unease when someone's disposition toward us shifts. In these moments, it's easy to feel vulnerable, attacked, and alone. But what if, in these very seasons in life, God is actively at work, providing a protection far beyond our understanding?

    In Genesis we have a powerful story of Jacob. After years of diligent service to his father-in-law, Laban, Jacob had grown prosperous. A little too prosperous, in Laban's jealous eyes. Laban had manipulated Jacob's wages not once or twice, but ten times, trying to gain an upper hand at Jacob's expense. Yet, despite Laban's schemes, Jacob always seemed to come out ahead. This fueled Laban's resentment even more, turning his once-friendly demeanor into hostility and suspicion. 

    Then, God spoke to Jacob, telling him it was time to return to his homeland. But home wasn't necessarily a safe haven; Jacob was pretty sure his brother Esau, whom he had previously cheated, was still holding a grudge—a deadly one. Armed with God's promise to be with him, Jacob gathered his wives and shared the divine directive to them. As he recounted his journey, he made a powerful statement that should resonates with us today:

"And you know that with all my might I have served your father. Yet your father has cheated me and changed my wages ten times, but God did not permit him to harm me." (Genesis 31:6-7 ESV)

    You see Jacob looked back, not with bitterness, but with clear insight. He recognized that through every deception, every changed wage, God's hand had been on him. Laban's malice was evident, but God's protection was paramount. This realization filled Jacob with the confidence he needed to face the next daunting challenge—returning to a brother who wanted him dead.

    This isn't just Jacob's story; it's our story too, especially as believers in Christ. We can, and should, rely on God's unwavering protection and provision in every twist and turn of life. If you have lived any length of time you realize pretty quickly how fast life can turn and all the ways our plans in life can change. However, we need to look at these things like Jacob did. We need to not just see the trials we face, but also the provisions God has given us through the trials. 

God's Protection: Not Always From the Fire, But In It

    I want you to notice something crucial about Jacob's experience: he wasn't protected from Laban's abuse and deception.  He endured it. Similarly, remember  in the fiery furnace? They weren't kept from the flames; they were protected within them. This aligns with Paul's powerful words in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9:

"We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed." (NKJV)

    To be honest this is something we do not want or enjoy. I am sure all of us would rather run from the trials and hardships. I am sure that Jacob would have rather not been cheated in the first place. Sometimes this resistance can cause us to lose sight on how God maybe working with in our circumstances to bring about something greater. Sure Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego would not be thrown in a furnace, but they also would have missed out on a powerful miracle as well.  God doesn't always shield us from difficulties, but He promises to shield us through them.

1. Through Life's Uncertainties and Changes: Whether it's a sudden shift in your finances, a health crisis, the complexities of a new job, or unexpected relational challenges, life constantly throws curveballs. In these moments of instability, we can rest in the assurance that we are not navigating them alone. God is with us, a constant amidst the chaos, capable of protecting us through every shift.

2. Through Injustices and False Accusations: It's infuriating to be unjustly attacked, to feel cheated, or to be the target of someone's malice. Our natural inclination might be to retaliate, to "right the wrong" ourselves. But Jacob's story reminds us that God is actively involved. He sees every injustice. He is more than capable of providing for you and dealing with those who wrong you. As Romans 12:19 reminds us: "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'" (ESV) Let go of the need for personal retribution and trust His divine justice.

3. Through Toxic Relationships: Some of the deepest wounds we carry come from those closest to us—family, friends, colleagues. Like Jacob's relationship with Laban, some connections become strained, even hostile. It's difficult to navigate these hurts, but God offers protection even in these complex dynamics. He can show us the way out, provide boundaries, or strengthen us to endure. He can help you discern when to stay and when to step away, always ensuring your ultimate well-being.

In every area of your life, no matter what you face or where you are, God is right there with you. You are not alone. He is your ultimate Protector, and His presence is your greatest safeguard.

Living It Out:

  1. Reflect on Past Protections: Take time to intentionally recall moments in your life where you felt attacked, cheated, or vulnerable, and how God showed up for you. You might even want to write them down so that you can reflect on them in the future. 
  2. Release the Need for Revenge: When faced with injustice, actively choose to surrender your desire for personal retribution to God. Pray for those who wrong you, and trust that God's justice and provision will ultimately prevail, freeing you from bitterness. Remember, forgiving others is not letting them off the hook, it is freeing you to move on and heal. 
  3. Seek God's Guidance in Relationships: If you find yourself in a toxic relationship, intentionally pray for God's wisdom and protection. Ask Him to show you healthy boundaries, illuminate the path forward, and give you the courage to make difficult decisions if necessary for your well-being.

Comments

In case you missed it

Ruined but Renovated

What is Your Story?

My Responses to the Olympic Opening.

I TOO RECIEVED A PARDON