My title for this devotion is Forsaken or Strengthened.
Last night in small group we talked about spiritual warfare from Ephesians 6. In today’s reading from Deuteronomy, the lesson of wearing spiritual armor was reinforced by the very basis of warfare.
“When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them, for the Lord God is with you…Do not fear or panic or be in dread of them, for the Lord your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.” Deut.20:1, 3a-4
God’s promise is not one of being forsaken in battle but of being strengthened for battle. There is a scene in Braveheart where the armies of Scotland were lined up against the armies of England but they were literally shaking and quaking in fear. As they begin to turn around and leave, William Wallace rides onto the battlefield in his “warpaint” and gives a stirring speech, intent on turning their fear into courage. He succeeds. The men needed reassurance that they were fighting for a greater cause. A higher cause. They needed to lay aside their fear and fight for future glory.
God’s promise is “I will be with you.” He adds, “Do not fear or panic or be in dread because I will fight for you.” “Thank you, Father, for that reassurance today. I look forward to Your strength for today’s battles. I count on it. I stand on Your promise that you will go with me.”
Amen!
Thanks Diane.
There are so many examples of God Fighting the Battle for His people.
I am reminded of the song “The Battle Belongs to the Lord”
My job is to be a willing participant.
Thanks for the reminder this morning!
There are a lot of songs Ryan. Not sure who sings that one you mentioned. I can think of “Soldiers Under Command” by Stryper. 🙂
So many battles are beyond our abilities to win on our own, but as Moses said in Exodus, we can have victory when we “fear not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord!”
Well said Pam. When will I ever learn?
The battle isn’t ours, it is God’s.
Thanks, Bill, for this steadfast reminder today.
Blessings!
You’re welcome Martha. It is His battle. #getitthroughmythickskull.
Knowing that God is there to fight along side me is what has helped in so many situations.
You are right Linda. it makes all the difference in the world. Thanks for the comment.
And He does everyday. It His sovereign hand that holds back annihilation daily. Thanks for the reminder.
I’m glad He holds back Floyd. I’d be toast daily.