March 11

Whose Battle?

And all those assembled here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and He will give all of you into our hands. — 1 Sam 17:47 BSB

Let this be settled in our hearts: the battle belongs to the Lord, and we can be assured of victory—a victory that will most clearly display the power of God. The Lord is often forgotten, even among His own people, but when there’s an opportunity to show that God can achieve His purposes without human power, it’s a priceless occasion that should be fully embraced. Even Israel tends to rely too much on sword and spear. It’s a glorious thing when David, with no sword in his hand, can know that God will defeat an entire army of enemies.

If we are truly fighting for truth and righteousness, we shouldn’t wait until we have talent, wealth, or any other form of visible power at our disposal. Instead, with the simple tools we have—like the stones in the brook and our usual sling—we should run to meet the enemy. If this battle were ours alone, we might not be so confident. But if we are standing up for Jesus and fighting in His strength alone, who can stand against us? Without any hesitation, let us face the Philistines, for the Lord of hosts is with us, and who can be against us?