Fighting Alone
David’s Mighty Warriors performed unimaginably impressive exploits, and won. What made them victorious?
2 Samuel 23.
They had to be physically strong and fit. They had to understand body tactics and fighting positions. They had to read body language and anticipate the moves of their opponent while thinking of their own strategy. In the speed of the fight, they had to think quickly and have fast reflexes. They had to be sure of their aim, know their purpose and keep their focus. They had to have the will to defeat their enemy and win. They were trained and primed for the purpose of fighting. They appeared fearless. They faced daunting disadvantage and yet, determined to overcome.
We read about some of these mighty men in 2 Samuel 23, in the following verses:
:8
Josheb-Basshebeth… raised his spear against eight hundred men
:9-10
the Israelites retreated, but Eleazar stood his ground and struck down the Philistines till his hand grew tired and froze to the sword. The LORD brought about a great victory that day.
:11-12
Israel’s troops fled… But Shammah took his stand in the middle of the field. He defended it and struck the Philistines down, and the LORD brought about a great victory.
:18
Abishai… raised his spear against three hundred men, whom he killed
:20-21
Benaiah… a valiant fighter… struck down Moab’s two mightiest warriors. He also went down into a pit on a snowy day and killed a lion… he struck down a huge Egyptian.
:23
And David put him in charge of his bodyguard.
Let’s not forget about David himself, talking to Saul before his victory over Goliath.
1 Samuel 17:36-37 (NIV)
Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear…. The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.”
2 Samuel 22:33-36 (NLT)
God is my strong fortress, and he makes my way perfect. He makes me as surefooted as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights. He trains my hands for battle; he strengthens my arm to draw a bronze bow. You have given me your shield of victory; your help has made me great.
Could they do what they did on their own?
God helped them. God positioned them. God anointed them for their task.
The Lord will always go before you when you walk into your day in His Name. He would train every hand for what you need so that you are not unsure or inadequate. He would strengthen every arm with skill, and every heart with valour.
Just as God helped David’s Mighty Warriors, even when they were alone and their support had left them, He will help you and me when we find ourselves fighting in life, alone.
Comentários