“When the battle is about to begin, let the priest come forward and speak to the troops. He’ll say, “Attention, Israel. In a few minutes you’re going to do battle with your enemies. Don’t waver in resolve. Don’t fear. Don’t hesitate. Don’t panic. God, your God, is right there with you, fighting with you against your enemies, fighting to win” (Deuteronomy 20:2)

Isn’t it puzzling that the Lord commanded the trained troops of Israel to first listen to the priest before going out into battle? Our God is intentional who never wants us to place our confidence in the arms of men, but in Him. Psalm 118:8-9 reminds us: “It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes.” The presence of the Lord is utmost as we journey through life.

1 Samuel 17 reveals to us that Israel’s army was sieged and demoralised for 40 days before Goliath. They found no man confident to confront him. But David, in a priestly attitude, understood the sovereign place of God, even in the battles of life and stood before the Goliath saying: “This day THE LORD will deliver you into my hands.” Goliath did not realise that “All your brilliant wisdom and clever insight will be of no help at all if the Lord is against you” (Proverbs 21:30), but David understood that “You can do your best to prepare for the battle, but ultimate victory comes from the Lord God” (Proverbs 21:31).

God has made us His priests. Let us boldly come to Him, above all skills or wisdom (1 Samuel 30:8). His name is a sure and strong tower, a place of true refuge. (Psalm 48:9-10). Amen.

#goodmorning 🌷

BeEncouraged❤️ Freely received. Freely shared