In many of the ancient battles recorded in the Bible, it is recounted that ‘surely the salvation of Israel is in the LORD our God’ and ‘from the LORD comes deliverance’. The emphasis is placed on God as being the true source of victory rather than the skill, talent, capability, strength and readiness of the army. I think we can also draw a parallel to our spiritual battle with sin here. We can try on our own strength and wisdom to be morally good / righteous, but freedom from sin only arrives through the saving and justifying work of Jesus Christ and the sanctifying work through His Holy Spirit. In a world which champions independence, God reminds us that we are wired to be continually dependent on Him.
Loving Father, thank You that You walk with us through our battles.
Lord, how amazing to read the different ways in which You instructed the Israelites to fight. In one, You required them to march around a city for 7 days, in another You directed them to stand still, sing praise and see Your salvation at work whilst in yet another You equipped a shepherd boy to defeat 9.5ft giant with a single stone. In every victory and defeat, Your sovereign Hand of grace is present and we thank You for that Lord. Help us to be ready for the battles ahead Jesus. Equip us – prepare our hearts, minds and bodies for the things we are to face. But Lord, may each victory foster an attitude of humble thankfulness rather than deceptive pride and may each defeat encourage hopeful humility instead of defeated bitterness.
You are always good. So good. And I love that.
Love You Lord.
Redeemer's Scribe 