I recently read a great historic clip. During the Korean War, a unit known as Baker Company was separated from the regiment, and enemy forces were advancing on them. For several hours, no word came from Baker Company. Finally, radio contact was made, and when asked for a report of the situation, Baker Company replied, “The enemy is to the east of us. The enemy is to the west of us. The enemy is to the south of us. The enemy is to the north of us.” Then, after a brief pause, a voice continued, “And this time, we’re not going to let them escape.”
After a chuckle and a smile, I thought, “How many times have I felt surrounded?” Let me ask you: how many time have you felt surrounded by enemy forces?
Lust. Greed. Pride. Envy. Jealousy. Hatred. Illicit requests. Sorcery. Idolatry. Division. (For a fuller list check out Galatians 5:19-21). The list certainly seems endless doesn’t it?
And there seems to be no way out. But there is! In Matthew 4 Jesus was attacked by Satan in the wilderness. Three specific temptations are recorded for us, but Mark 1:13 tells us the temptations were constant during His 40 days in the wilderness. Jesus didn’t wring His hands in worry, fear, or defeat. No. He went on the offensive. Three times He said, “It is written.” Not “I’m gonna have to think about this” or “Well, Satan, you sure have me behind the 8-ball this time.”
Jesus wasn’t defensive; He was offensive. In Ephesian 6 the Apostle Paul writes about the spiritual armor available to us. The shield of faith is used to fend of the enemy’s arrows, but the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT (which is the Word of God) is an offensive weapon. You don’t parry arrows with a sword, you fight with a sword.
There is authority and power in God’s Word. Don’t stand idly by. Use it!
Thanks for the reminder this morning and the history. We have the creator of all things on our side when we walk with God. Why is it that I approach life sometimes as if I am defeated. I need to remember (and be reminded) that God has my best interests in mind. That doesn’t mean I will always get what I want… but I will be provided all that I need. I have been provided the equipment needed to go into battle daily. I just need to remember to suit up. I just need to remember to unsheathe my sword and I need to remember who the real enemy is.
You’re welcome Ryan. your question is a legitimate one for sure. Why do I approach life that way? I need to remember the “battle belongs to the Lord.”
We are surrounded by the enemy on all sides, but we know who wins in the end. May we trust in God’s goodness.
Blessings, Bill!
Very true Linda. On all counts.
Thanks for reminder Bill, why do we try to battle, when Jesus has already won. We have the battle gear, the absolutely best King right there with us, so why would we ever try it on our own. I’m reminded of an old gospel song, Lord, I can’t even walk without You holding my hand. The Lord’s hand is our lifeline to everything, we just need to hold onto Our King in everything we do, it is never God who lets go.
You’re welcome Gail. And yes, we have the battle gear. It is using it and relying on the King to help us that we can win.