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The Battle Belongs to the Lord

“THE BATTLE BELONGS TO THE LORD!”

Our theme for this year is taken from I Samuel 17:47. The familiar story of David and Goliath reminds us of the power of having God on our side. Even though Goliath came at David with armor, shield, spear, and sword, David had God on his side. A small shepherd boy with a slingshot and five stones slew a giant with the help of the Lord. Putting his trust in the power of the Lord, David slew the giant and routed the Philistines. This is a story of encouragement for each of us as we face our “Goliaths” today. It is a story of hope that all of us have been taught since we were very young and still resonates with us today.

This story reminds us that no matter what is going on in the world, God is still with His followers. It reminds us that no matter what we read or see in the news our God will be there for us. If we trust in the Lord, it does not matter what earthly troubles we bring to the battle, God is with us. Those who trust in the Lord will have the ultimate victory.

There are going to come times of trouble in our lives. Relationships, health problems, financial difficulties, addictions, political turmoil, and other issues will confront us during our lives. When we are faced with these moments, we must remember to stand strong, trust in the Lord, and know that He cares for us.

Three important lessons to remember as we enter this new year:

1.What we see with earthly eyes is not all there isOne of Satan’s biggest strategies is to get us to see only the small picture and not the larger view before us. Shield, sword, and spear are what Satan wants us to see and not the amazing awesome power of the Lord. The Lord has provided armor for us. Take up the armor and loudly proclaim that you are coming in the name of the Lord.
2.The Lord will give us what we need, as we look to Him as the true Conqueror. Like Moses, Gideon, Esther, and David, God can give us unimaginable courage. We are simply His instruments to fulfill His purposes. The Lord’s power has no limits, and His glory will prevail.
3.Victory may not happen in the way people expect. Everyone expected David to fight with sword and armor. Yet, David came with a slingshot, five stones, and the power of the Lord. Trust in the Lord to do what He says, and wait to see all that He will do in His time. Everyone knew that it wasn’t a small shepherd boy who conquered Goliath, but the Lord.

When we are faced with one hard thing after another, let us remember that what we see in front of us is not all there is. Pray that the Lord equips you for the battle, and put on His armor. Glorify God as He helps you through the trial and know that truly, “THE BATTLE BELONGS TO THE LORD.”          Written by Larry Schneider