Read: 2 Samuel 5: 17-25 Victory Every Time !“This also cometh forth from the LORD of hosts, which is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working.” Isa. 28:29
It is so important that we include God in every decision we make. In our reading today we see how David enquired of God before going out in battle against the Philistines. It is so important to know if God be with you in a venture, decision, journey etc. that you plan to make. To assume that He is with you in this decision just because He did so the last time is foolishness. A humble person will include God in the decisions that he makes. To fear God is to revere Him, to revere Him is the beginning of wisdom.
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding ” Prov.9:10 Without understanding and knowledge we are set up for defeat. Solomon writes,
“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” Prov. 4:7
When David went out against the Philistines the first time, God assured him of victory. David was successful in driving them away. Now the enemy was back again with reinforcements. They came in the same way, in the same place and with the same intent. David did not presume on Gods help with him and proceed into battle against them a second time. Instead, he enquired of God and God gave him a different method and strategy to attack the Philistines. The method God gave you the last time might not be the method He chooses this time. Seek God’s counsel!
“There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.” Prov.19:21
If David had gone on ahead without the instruction from God he would have been defeated. Although God had promised David that he would be successful the first time, it seemed like the enemy had reappeared. David’s first encounter with the Philistines was when he defeated Goliath. Now he was facing them again and again. The Lord promised David that He would go before them and strike the enemy. Although they came with reinforcements this time, God also sent forth heavenly armies to wage war. It was the sound of this host in the mulberry bushes that gave David the sign of Gods help. This time they would be completely defeated.
What are the ‘Goliaths” in your life? What is that thing in your life which seems to keep returning to challenge you and your freedom? Even if they gather in numbers against you be confident that God and all of heaven backs you. Say along with David,
“Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.” Ps. 27:3. Ask God for help. Listen and obey His instruction to you. God is interested in your victory every time!
“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it .”1 Cor.10:13
Every time you are challenged you are gaining victory, and growing stronger in the Lord. Every victory is leading to the annihilation of that enemy that has challenged you and pursued you. When that enemy is dealt with the last time it will be the final blow and the Lord himself will fight for you in this. Be encouraged!
“Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.”
2 Kings 6:16
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