MSM: Ready for Battle

“Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” –Deuteronomy 31:8

It’s easy to read this snippet of a Bible verse and dismiss it with a retort, “Well, you obviously don’t understand what I’m going through.” When we are facing a giant, so often we can only see what is looming larger than life in front of us. When we can’t see a way out of the situation, it’s natural to feel afraid or discouraged, and to feel all alone.

Yet, my friend, that is where we are mistaken. We are never alone. The rest of that Bible verse assures us that “the Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Imagine yourself in a medieval battlefield. You are trying to advance, but the arrows are flying—and you are in real danger of being seriously wounded or killed. You feel so small compared to the battle raging around you. Just then, a giant warrior comes over and says, “Come with me.” As you move forward together, his shield protects you. The enemy is seeking to destroy you, but your mighty companion is fighting the battle for you. All you have to do is to stay close, follow his lead, and trust that he will get you where you need to be.

God is like that. He is our mighty warrior, who is there to guide and to protect us. We may have to go through a mighty battle, but we are never alone. He will never leave nor forsake us. He has given us his word.

Friend, whatever battle you face today, remember that you are not alone. If you need strength and courage, call upon the Lord. He will be your strength. He will be your guide. And while you may feel small, remember that God is bigger than any giant in your path.

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Remember, the battle belongs to the Lord.

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” – Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)

“This is what the LORD says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.’” – 2 Chronicles 20:15 (NIV)