His Presence

I was doing laundry tonight when I heard Natalie Grant's song "My Weapon." What a powerful song! It's a warfare song with a profound truth: "Your presence is my greatest weapon."

As I sang, worshipped, and declared these words, I couldn't shake the image of a lion behind me.

One of my favorite scenes in C.S. Lewis's The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is when Aslan's (the lion) presence becomes visible behind Edmund. Edmund had strayed down a dark path, making many mistakes and ultimately becoming indebted to the White Witch. Just when the Witch believed she had him trapped, Aslan appeared. Unbeknownst to Edmund, Aslan was there to sacrifice himself on his behalf. At the sight of Aslan, the Witch realized she could do nothing to harm Edmund; he was protected and safe. This grace was something Edmund could never have earned or deserved.

In Chapter 13, we witness a harrowing moment: Edmund is roughly forced to his feet, bound, and alone in a dark forest, away from his family. The Witch commands, "Prepare the victim." The dwarf undoes Edmund's collar, folds back his shirt, and pulls his head back to expose his neck. Then Edmund hears a strange noise—whizz-whizz-whizz. For a moment, he can't think what it is. Then he realizes it's the sound of a knife being sharpened.

Can you imagine being in that situation?

What if you had actively participated in the steps that led you there?

I would be terrified. Yet I too am Edmund.

I have actively participated in my own downfall, led away by my desires and sins. Edmund's story begins with one tempting bite of Turkish Delight and ends in near death. Crazy? Perhaps. But isn't this the truth for us every day? One little compromise here, another there, not realizing the dark path is taking us on. But it is not all lost! In the darkest moments, how many of us have experienced God's saving grace?

In the book, Aslan steps in and sacrifices himself for Edmund. This mirrors our Jesus, who sacrificed himself for us at the cross for our sins. Yet He is not done—He is still showing up for us daily!!

I know this is how the Lord shows up for me every day in the presence of the enemy. No matter the circumstances, trials, or tribulations, He is there. If His presence is with me, I am safe; I am covered.

Can you imagine this? Can you feel it? I don’t know if you’ve ever encountered a lion up close, but I recall visiting a lion enclosure in Las Vegas. I felt his power, beauty, and terrifying strength just behind the glass—all 400+ pounds of him. I knew I was in the presence of something much bigger than me.

Now, consider the Holy Spirit. Friends, that is nothing compared to the lion. This is the power that resurrected Christ (Ephesians 1:19-21), the same power that the Bible says lives in us (Romans 8:11). Again—can you imagine this? Can you feel this? This is His presence. There are no weapons forged against us that can prosper (Isaiah 54:17). We are victorious in Jesus Christ (Romans 8:37)!!

As we walk, the mighty Lion of Judah has our back (Revelation 5:5).

Again, can you feel that?!

I can’t help but shudder at the thought of a literal lion behind me, as my protector. I am even more in awe knowing that Jesus is with me—the Creator of that lion!!

So I encourage you all to walk with Jesus, to pray, and to live victoriously.

There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1).

Trust in the Lord.

Remember, like Edmund, there is not a battle we can't face or fight—not because of us, but because our weapon is His presence.

Reflection Corner

• In what areas of your life do you feel surrounded or attacked?

• Have you forgotten the power and presence that walks behind you?

• What does it mean to you that Jesus is your protector, even when you’ve made mistakes?

Practical Takeaways

• Listen to Natalie Grant’s "My Weapon" and worship through it. Let the lyrics become your prayer.

• Read Romans 8 and write down all the promises listed for those who are in Christ.

• Visualize the Lion of Judah behind you as you pray through your fears and challenges.

Shalom & Grace,

Lis