Arrows of the Almighty

The Battle Is The Lord’s

“And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saves not with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD'S, and He will give you into our hands.” (I Samuel 17:47)

When visiting Pennsylvania one of the favorite sights to see is Gettysburg, where the famous battle was fought.  Every country has its own famous battle grounds -- Iwo Jima, Waterloo, Montezuma -- yet the most frequently fought battles don't make the headlines nor find their place in history books; they are those that are fought each day in our own hearts and minds.

Every one of us battles temptation daily.  One of our daughters when she was very young yielded to the temptation of shop lifting.  Little things, not much, but she thought she could just take them.  I recognized it and asked the Lord to catch her.  It was not many days later that a policeman brought her to our house and lectured me for her theft.  I saw how it hurt her and you know she never did it again.  Once outside, I thanked that policeman.  He just smiled.  God answered my prayer.

Temptations come at times when it seems easier to cheat than to study.  Most of us have lied to avoid getting into trouble.  Then there are those reactions to the judgmental words of others; we become angry, bitter and long for retaliation.  What tempts one person will not be a problem for another but we are all tempted.  Yet, “no temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.” (1Cor. 10:13 NASV)

Young David battled a nine-foot giant, yet he didn't give in to fear because he trusted in God, (I Samuel 17).  Goliath never had a chance!  You and I can have the same success as we face the battle of temptation.  Recognize the enemy and remember that the battle is not yours but God’s.  He will help you when you ask in faith.

“Almighty God, time and time again You delivered Your people Israel from trouble and tragedy and made them triumphant.  Thank You that Your power extends to me now.  Help me to turn to You when I battle temptation and to trust You to fight for me.  Through Christ Jesus I pray, Amen”