Lately, it has become more and more apparent to me that we are in a spiritual battle, and I was reminded of God’s faithfulness to His people almost 3,500 years ago. Under the leadership of Moses, God had enabled the Israelites to endure many hardships during their 40 years in the wilderness. He regularly allowed opportunities for His chosen to prove their obedience and faith through the testing of their courage and commitment.
Some of the battles that Moses and Israel faced were actual, full-scaled military battles, like when the Amalekites attacked Israel. At other times, the people of Israel rebelled against Moses and challenged his God-given leadership. Moses must have been at his wit’s end during such times. And like Moses, at times, we get tired in the flesh and weak of heart. In the same way, sometimes our “battle” is dealing with the little things in life that demand our attention and distract us from what’s truly important. At other times, we find ourselves consumed with weightier matters like navigating a rift in a relationship, trying to overcome some sin, or attempting to lead someone to Christ.
Spiritual Battles Require Preparation
The Apostle Paul was right; we are in a spiritual battle that requires preparation, perseverance, and dependence on the Lord. He warns us to, “Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:11-12) nowing we’re in a battle, we must constantly keep our communication lines open with the Lord and follow His battle plan. In Exodus 17:4-7, Moses does this very thing:
Then Moses cried out to the LORD, “What am I to do with these people? They are almost ready to stone me.” The LORD answered Moses, “Walk on ahead of the people. Take with you some of the elders of Israel and take in your hand the staff with which you struck the Nile and go. I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it for the people to drink.” So, Moses did this in the sight of the elders of Israel. And he called the place Massah and Meribah because the Israelites quarreled and because they tested the LORD saying, “Is the LORD among us or not?”
As God was with Moses, He is also with us. I love what Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 16:13, “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” (ESV) Men, we are in a spiritual battle. Be ready. Don’t let your guard down. Keep relying on the Lord for His strength, courage, and plan.
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 6:10-18
Personal Application: What battles are you fighting right now? Pray and ask God for guidance and perseverance. Trust Him with whatever it is you’re battling and find your strength in Him who is all powerful.
Wendell Morton and Jim Grassi, D. Min.
We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5