Providential Protection

In U. S. history, four presidents have been assassinated: Abraham Lincoln, James A. Garfield, William McKinley, and John F. Kennedy. A few others had attempts on their lives before, during, and after occupying the Oval Office. One of the latter was Donald Trump. Eight days ago, the 45th President (who’s seeking a return to the White House) got shot during a rally in Pennsylvania. The bullet grazed his right ear seconds after turning his head. Many have called this a miracle. At the Republican National Convention this past Thursday, Trump stated, “…I stand before you in this arena only by the grace of Almighty God.”

Trump’s close brush with death reminded me of another famous American who experienced providential protection. Years before becoming our first president, George Washington had come close to getting killed numerous times while fighting in various battles. In a letter to family members, Washington wrote, “By the miraculous care of providence I have been protected beyond all human probability or expectation…for I had four bullets through my coat and two horses shot under me, yet escaped unhurt. Although death was leveling my companions on every side of me.”


One might question why Trump’s life was spared but not other presidents plus innocent bystanders exposed to the gunfire. God is not willing that any should perish (2 Peter 3:9). We must remember we live in a fallen world largely ruled by Satan. However, Christians can avoid tragedies by praying and recognizing divine delays. I’ve heard many stories of lives spared during 9/11. I also learned a friend of mine felt a burden to pray for Trump at a men’s breakfast hours before the assassination attempt. Their prayers likely contributed to saving his life. 


Observers have pointed out Trump was shot at 6:11 p.m. Ephesians 6:11 commands,“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” Christians who know their authority in Christ can withstand attacks of the enemy. John Hagee once had a man walk into his church and shot at the pastor at close range. All six bullets were supernaturally deflected.


We are living in dangerous times. However, we can be confident of fulfilling God’s plan for our lives if we’re obedient to His leading and walk in His authority.


“A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it shall not come near you.” - Psalm 91:7 

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