"Ouch" Is The Appropriate Response

I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. [John 17.15]

If Jesus asked this of God, what are the chances of it not being answered? 

Jesus specifically stated who this prayer was for:

“I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. [John 17.20]

No matter how it is researched, my faith finds its roots in the story of Jesus, told and written, originating from one of Jesus' first disciples. Therefore, in John 17, Jesus prayed for me.

So, among other things, Jesus prayed from my safety from the evil one. 

Who is the evil one and what does he do? He is Satan and his every employee. He is consistent in his methods because he is limited to them. He is a liar - no truth is found in him. And, his lies all have the same intended outcome: death, theft, and destruction...

Back then to the subject passage above: Jesus asked the Father to keep me safe from the evil one. If I am not safe, then something is wrong, but what?

I don't think God told Jesus, "No." 

I don't think God is incapable of keeping me safe. 

I certainly don't think God's character changed anywhere along the way. 

There is ONLY one other possibility and that would be that I have not "believed" (John 17.20). There is a full life of blessings missed by any and everyone who does not believe.

So there! Problem solved! If blessings aren't upon my life, it is because I have simply not believed!

Now, wait just a minute! I know what I have believed! I believe in Jesus! I pray. I read the Bible. I go to church. And, in case no one else is counting, I have published over 6200 articles about faith and the Bible in this setting! And, oh yeah, I was a missionary for six years! SO DON'T TELL ME I AM NOT BLESSED BECAUSE I HAVE NOT BELIEVED!

Well, here's the deal... maybe the problem is that I have believed in me more than in Jesus! I wonder who might trick me into doing that??

Yes, "Ouch!" is the appropriate response...

Father, I know I tend to overcomplicate everything. Help me to take Your Word in the amazing simplicity of faith You tell me to without my logic, my reasoning, and my help. And, in that simple faith, may I enjoy the safety only You can give that Jesus asked for. Please forgive me for trusting in anything or anyone else (including myself).