Hannah lived on a mission compound in West Africa with some other missionaries. She enjoyed visiting women and children in the surrounding villages, telling them about the love of God that sent the Lord Jesus Christ down from heaven to die for sinners. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:1616For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16). These women were glad for Hannah’s visits, because she was kind and often helped them when they needed something. Since she was their friend, they listened to the words she read from the Bible. Some gave up their heathen religion and accepted the Lord Jesus as their own Saviour.
Wild animals often prowled around in the forests near Hannah’s house. Although she lived all alone in a small house, she trusted the Lord to protect her, and He did. “Whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe.” Proverbs 29:2525The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe. (Proverbs 29:25).
One night, she thought she heard an animal trying to get into the cattle shelter which was close to her house. She lighted a lantern and set it outside to frighten the animal away. Going back into the house, she suddenly stopped. There was a huge lion looking in the back window at her! She thought it was going to jump right through the window into the room! Hannah quickly ran out the front door. Slamming it shut, she heard the crash of glass as the lion jumped through the window! She screamed for help! The men on the compound came running with their rifles. They slowly opened the door to Hannah’s house with their rifles ready. Where was the lion? They carefully searched each room, but they found no trace of it except for the shattered window pane and blood. It must have gone out the same way it came in when it found nothing to eat.
Hannah was saved from danger by running away from the lion as soon as she saw it. She could have tried to fight it, but she knew the lion was too strong for her. She needed help.
Satan is a very strong enemy, too. None of us can fight him alone. But the Lord Jesus Christ has defeated Satan. He has already won the victory for us. We can run to Him for salvation and protection. Have you run to Him for protection? He wants to save you today. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may dour.” 1 Peter 5:88Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: (1 Peter 5:8).
ML-07/12/1981