David had been battling many enemies for a long time. He was known as a mighty warrior. However, while fighting the Philistines once again, in the middle of a thick battle, he became weak and exhausted (2 Samuel 21).
Sometimes it seems like our battles go on and on and on. Sometimes it seems like our enemies are as big as the Philistine giants. And, we too become weak and exhausted from the fight.
Our battles may seem to be against the people in our lives… spouses, children, parents, employers, coaches, friends… Maybe our battles are with ourselves…guilt, worry, shame, unforgiveness, bitterness, fear, lack of confidence, identity…
Scripture teaches us that our battles are not against flesh and blood. That we are ultimately fighting spiritual battles with evil and darkness – with THE enemy. (Ephesian 6:12)
No matter the battle, we can respond when in distress like David in Psalm 18 (also in 2 Samuel 22).
What did David do in the middle of the battle?
He called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise.
He cried out to the Lord.
He prayed for help.
We can run to the One who brings light into the darkness. We can cry out to the Lord, who is worthy of praise.
What did God do in the middle of the battle?
God heard David’s cry from his sanctuary.
God reached down.
God rescued.
God drew David out of deep waters.
God led him to a place of safety.
God rewarded him.
God restored him.
God lit up his darkness.
God armed him with strength.
God made his way perfect.
God made him surefooted.
God enabled him to stand.
God trained his hands for battle
God strengthened his arms.
God gave him victory.
God supported him.
God kept him from slipping.
We may have battles, but we have a greater GOD!
David discovered the goodness of God over and over again.
How did David respond?
“I love you, Lord; you are my strength.
The lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior;
my God is my rock, in whom I find protection.
He is my shield, the power that saves me,
and my place of safety.”
(Psalm 18:1-2 NLT)
“God’s way is perfect.
All the Lord’s promises prove true.
He is a shield for all who look to him for protection.”
(Psalm 18:30 NLT)
“For this, O Lord, I will praise you among the nations.
I will sing praises to your name.”
(Psalm 18:49 NLT)
Be encouraged today. You have a God that will go to battle with you and for you. He loves you. He is your strength, rock, fortress, savior, protection, power, and place of safety. His way is perfect, and His promises never fail.
Photo by James Pond on Unsplash