Shielded by Grace: A Story of God's Love and Protection
Life often presents moments that test our faith, resilience, and understanding of the unseen forces at work in our lives. Some experiences leave us shaken yet profoundly grateful, reminding us of the divine presence guiding our steps. About two weeks ago, I had such a moment—a situation I believe was nothing short of divine intervention. It happened during an evening drive home from my dad's Thanksgiving celebration, a drive filled with the warmth of family memories and an unexpected encounter that left me in awe of God's protective hand.
My youngest and I left my dad's around 3:30 PM for the 4.5-hour drive home. My husband and my oldest daughter were driving separately. Knowing part of the trip would be in the dark, I was cautious.
As I drove on the interstate toward Madison, I moved into the left lane to pass a car on the right. I consider myself a pretty aware driver, always checking my mirrors, and it’s hard to miss headlights behind you at night. I was listening to one of my favorite podcasts, Designed to Heal. The guest, Dr. Ben, was interviewing a man who had survived a tragic car accident that took the life of his friend. He shared how that experience left him questioning life and struggling to find his way to Jesus. He described feeling like he was living two separate lives—one for the world and one for God. A pastor had told him living two lives was causing conflict in his heart and that he needed to choose: live fully for Jesus or continue a path of self-destruction.
This story resonated with me because, like many, I’ve wrestled with purpose and faith. I believe we all have moments of being ‘lukewarm,’ unsure of how fully we’re living for God. In today’s world it’s too easy to fall away from God and forget to put Him first.
As I was reflecting on this, a van came speeding up behind me, getting uncomfortably close. I thought, “I’ll pass this car soon. Be patient.” But the van's driver had no intention of waiting. They sped up even more, tailing me within a foot of my bumper.
Then everything happened quickly. Normally, I wouldn’t react the way I did, but instead of speeding up to get out of the way, I had this thought to hit my brakes instead. I still can’t explain why I made that choice and maybe that had to be done for a reason, I may not understand. The van swerved sharply, trying to avoid hitting me, while I moved into the right lane just ahead of the car I’d been passing. The driver of the van was furious, and my gut told me they weren’t done.
Sure enough, as I drove in the right lane, the van suddenly swerved toward me, crossing into my lane. My phone, which had been resting on the steering wheel for navigation, flew across the car to the passenger seat. All I could say was, “Jeez.” Somehow, I ended up on the wide paved shoulder, safely out of harm's way. I regained control of the car as the black van sped off.
Shaken, I thought, “Did anyone see that?” What stuck with me was the story I’d heard on the podcast about being saved. I realized I had no memory of turning the wheel to avoid the van and I only truly remember the phone flying and the van next to me partially in my lane. I truly believe God took control in that moment to protect us. It reminds me how much He loves me and it’s something that I so easily forget and need to remember His love.
“The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”– Zephaniah 3:17
I thanked Him immediately and continue to thank Him daily. But I also felt a pang of guilt, that He had to intervene. I told my sister-in-law Kathy this story and she reminded me, “If that was your daughter, wouldn’t you intervene?” Her words remind me of God’s unconditional love, and I’m so grateful for that perspective. He is faithful even when we may falter.
“The Lord will fight for you; you only need to be still.” – Exodus 14:14
As days passed, I kept reflecting on this experience and how many times God may have intervened in my life without me even realizing it. We have no idea how often He protects us. Perhaps being late to work is His way of shielding us from an accident. Life is precious, and though our time will eventually come, I have complete faith that God keeps us here for a purpose until then.
This month, my family and I have been reading the book of Luke each day to celebrate Jesus and help my children understand His importance. December isn’t about presents; it’s about God’s gift—His only Son. One passage stood out to me: the parable of the seeds in Luke 8:5-15.
Jesus explains that the seed represents the Word of God.
Some seeds fall along the path, where the devil takes the Word away before it can grow.
Others fall on rocky ground, where they sprout quickly but lack roots, falling away in times of testing.
Still others fall among thorns, where they’re choked by life’s worries, riches, and pleasures.
But the seeds that fall on good soil grow deep roots, bearing fruit with patience and perseverance.
This parable struck me deeply. I aspire to be like the seeds in good soil, but I know there are times when I’ve lived like the seeds among the thorns.
The experience on that drive has left an indelible mark on my heart—not just as a reminder of God’s protection but as a call to live with deeper faith and purpose. Every day, I think of the parable of the seeds, striving to nurture the kind of faith that grows and bears fruit. Life is precious, and God’s hand is at work around us in ways we may never see. Through scripture, family, and even unexpected moments on the road, He calls us to walk closer with Him.
God Bless