God's Gracious Protection: Embracing Life's Trials
People tend to perceive God as a protector because, in their view, His providence is expressed primarily as loving, inherent care and assistance, despite life's inevitable trials. According to the authors, the tests that befall an individual should not be seen solely as punishment or divine control but rather as part of a gracious plan aimed at cultivating virtues and fostering spiritual growth. This perspective allows one to experience God as ever-present, loving, and protective, whether or not one consciously feels that protection.Thus, one source clearly states:"God always loves us, is always with us, and His protection is always upon us. And if a person does not yet feel or thank God for this protection, it does not mean that he is deprived of it." (source: link txt, page: 816)Furthermore, life's trials are interpreted not as punitive measures but as blessed opportunities for inner transformation and closeness to God. Without such trials, a person would have no reason to realize their dependence on supreme mercy and protection, and thus would not be able to experience true spiritual awakening. In this light, these challenges are viewed as signals of God's love, warning against self-satisfaction and prompting the heart to turn towards Him.Thus, the belief in God as a protector is founded on the idea that His providence operates independently of human perception, shielding and guiding us through all life's hardships, with trials serving as a means for soul development rather than as evidence of His hostility or indifference.Supporting citation(s):"God always loves us, is always with us, and His protection is always upon us. And if a person does not yet feel or thank God for this protection, it does not mean that he is deprived of it." (source: link txt, page: 816)"If we had not sinned in Adam, we would have been immortal altogether; death would not have been necessary. But death, as the limit, exists in order to put an end to our iniquities. Therefore, it is all God's grace – both illnesses and severe circumstances... If we experience any sorrow, it means that the Lord loves us, and that He is calling us to Himself..." (source: link txt, page: link