SCRIPTURE
Hezekiah, the king of Judah said “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him. With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles" (2 Chronicles 32:7-8)
OBSERVATION
The king of Assyria invaded Judah and was about to make war on Jerusalem. Hezekiah, in encouraging the people, describes this vast army of Assyria as "only" the arm of flesh. I love that. It would be like saying North Korea's or Iran's potential nuclear arsenal is only the arm of flesh...not a big deal. But when you compare the two, God versus a vast army, God always tips the scales in his favor. The king of Assyria had his army, but the people in Jerusalem had God. He would fight their battles for them.
APPLICATION
There are plenty of things in life that look insurmountable. It seems the challenges can come almost daily. Not all of them are big things but in the moment even the small things can drain my energy and momentum. That's why I need to remember to walk with God. When I am on his side, he fights for me. He helps me in my battles. I can join forces with the world, but it only has the arm of flesh. It is limited in power and resources. But when God helps me, the resources are unlimited and the victory is sure. I still have to fight but God enters the battle with me. These words are a great encouragement to know I'm not alone and don't have to do it all in my own strength. When I face the battles and struggles in life, whether it's from outside or my own internal fight for holiness, I know I have a greater power with me...God himself.
PRAYER
Father, thank you that you are with me and help me to fight my battles. It doesn't depend on my own strength alone but you help me to fight the good fight. Amen.
