Conclusion of A Promise of Loving Care

When faced with the scorching heat of persecution and the storms of opposition, the cleansed remnant will find Jehovah to be their Source of protection, security, and refuge.  (Psalm 91:1, 2; 121:5) A beautiful prospect is thus set before them: If they leave behind the unclean beliefs and practices of Babylon, submit to the cleansing of Jehovah's judgment, and endeavor to remain holy, they will remain safe, as if in "a booth" of divine protection.

Notice that first comes the cleansing, then the blessings.  This has proved true in our day. Back in 1919 the anointed remnant humbly submitted to being refined, and Jehovah "washed away" their uncleanness.  Since then, "a great crowd" of other sheep have also allowed themselves to be cleansed by Jehovah.  (Revelation 7:9) Thus cleansed, the remnant and their companions have been blessed-Jehovah has taken them into his protective care.  He does not miraculously prevent  the heat of persecution or the storms of opposition from bearing down on them.  But he does protect them, as if erecting over them 'a booth for shade and a hiding place from the rainstorm.'  How?

Consider this:  Some of the most powerful governments in history have banned the preaching work of Jehovah's Witnesses or have tried to eliminate them completely. Yet, the Jehovah's Witnesses have remained firm and have continued to preach without letup!  Why have mighty nations been unable to put a stop to the activity of this relatively small and seemingly defenseless group of people?  Because Jehovah has placed his servants  in "a booth" of protection that no human can tear down! 

What about us as individuals?  Having Jehovah as our Protector does not mean that we have a problem-free life in this system of things.  Many faithful Christians  face severe adversities, such as poverty, natural disasters, war, sickness and death.  When facing such distresses, let us never forget that our God is with us.  He protects us spiritually, providing what we need-even "power beyond what is normal"-to endure trials faithfully.  (2 Corinthians 4:7)  Safe in his presence, we need not fear. After all, as long as we do our best to keep ourselves holy in his sight, nothing "will be able to separate us from God's love." -Romans 8:38, 39.

Next time: Woe to the Unfaithful Vineyard! chapter seven

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind