ODB: things said in secret
September 16, 2009 READ: Ephesians 4:25-32 The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious. —Ecclesiastes 10:12 Some say that anonymity is the last refuge for cowards. Judging from mail and comments I’ve read that have been submitted anonymously, I would agree. People hiding behind the screen of anonymity or a false identity feel the [...]
ODJ: against all odds
He can win a battle whether he has many warriors or only a few (v.6).
READ: 1 Samuel 14:1-23
When considering the many dramatic victories recorded in the Bible, many of us will immediately think of David and Goliath. I’m sure you remember that story of a bold, young shepherd who took down a huge Philistine warrior using a slingshot and a ton of confidence in God (1 Samuel 17:1-50). Most of us forget, however, that before David killed the giant, Jonathan (who would become one of David’s closest friends), displayed a similar level of courage and trust.
Here’s the setting: The army of Israel was in a dangerous bind. The Philistines had assembled a mighty military force that was armed to the teeth and ready to fight. Unarmed and outnumbered by thousands, the men of Israel fled to the hills and hid in caves (1 Samuel 13:6-7).
Eventually Jonathan, the son of Israel’s king, got tired of living in fear and decided to take action on his own. He and his armor bearer challenged a Philistine outpost that was strategically positioned high on a cliff. At first glance, it looked like a suicide mission. But Jonathan’s view was “nothing can hinder the Lord. He can win a battle whether he has many warriors or only a few!” (1 Samuel 14:6). Through a miraculous chain of events, Jonathan and his companion overtook the Philistine outpost (vv.8-14). Their victory triggered a major panic that swept through the entire Philistine army and led to their defeat (vv.15-20).
Against all odds, God rescued Israel that day. It may not be as obviously dramatic, but God will sometime call us into situations where the odds will seem to be stacked against us. Why all the drama and suspense? Perhaps to increase our awe and confidence in Him. For the one who wins the battle is God—not us. —Jeff Olson
Read Psalm 111 and then spend some time remembering a situation when God intervened in your life in a way that was undeniably His work. Why do we need to remember that He’s the Lord of the battles in life?
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