“Then panic struck the whole army—those in the camp and field, and those in the outposts and raidingparties—and the ground shook. It was a panic sent by God.[a] 16 Saul’s lookouts at Gibeah in Benjamin saw the army melting away in all directions. 17 Then Saul said to the men who were with him, “Muster the forces and see who has left us.” When they did, it was Jonathan and his armor-bearer who were not there. 18 Saul said to Ahijah, “Bring the ark of God.” (At that time it was with the Israelites.)[b] 19 While Saul was talking to the priest, the tumult in the Philistine camp increased more and more. So Saul said to the priest,“Withdraw your hand.” 20 Then Saul and all his men assembled and went to the battle. They found the Philistines in total confusion, striking each other with their swords. 21 Those Hebrews who had previously been with the Philistines and had gone up with them to their camp went over to the Israelites who were with Saul and Jonathan. 22 When all the Israelites who had hidden in the hill country of Ephraim heard that the Philistines were on the run, they joined the battle in hot pursuit. 23 So on that day the Lord saved Israel, and the battle moved on beyond Beth Aven.” 1 Samuel 14.15-23
Isn’t it better when God fights our battles? In this instance, He uses faithful men (Jonathan and his armor-bearer) as catalysts for the victory. But make no mistake—it was the Lord who caused the panic and confusion in the camp of the Philistines.
Unbeknownst to Saul, Jonathan and his armor-bearer snuck off to do battle. God directed them to go up and fight the Philistines in the field, and as a result, their victory was assured. The battle escalated, and the entire Philistine army turned on itself, fighting one another. When Israel heard that the Philistines were fleeing, they “joined the battle in hot pursuit.” I love the final verse in this story: “So on that day, the Lord saved Israel.”
Behind every victory stands the Lord. Behind every defeat, sin and Satan are put in their place. To fight on our own is futile. To toy with sin is foolish. Whether the battle you face is internal or external, if your heart is for the Lord, He will help you overcome.
The difference between the victors and losers in Scripture often comes down to faith. When people put their faith in the Lord, trusted Him, and loved Him, they were victorious in whatever they faced. But when they did evil in the sight of God or ignored His commands, they experienced devastating loss and destruction.
For those who love and honor the Lord, He fights for us. God not only fights our battles but wins them. This truth is evident not only in Scripture but also in life. The only obstacle we face is our own disobedience and willfulness to go our own way. If we pursue righteousness, holiness, and the love of Christ, we will walk in victory all the days of our lives.
This is the week of Thanksgiving, and the holiday season is upon us. I know this can be a difficult time for many who have suffered the loss of loved ones or face struggles in life, work, or school. You may be in a place of great difficulty and facing many trials, or you might be experiencing a victorious and blessed season. Whatever your situation, turn to the Lord. Hold fast to His Word. Cling to His commandments. Call upon His name. Seek His face and trust in Him. The Lord is with you. He will fight your battles and bring you out victorious on the other side.
“O Lord God, You are good. Thank You for loving me. Thank You for allowing me to find hope and healing in Your hands. Even when I turn away, You remain constant. Thank You, Lord, for fighting my battles so I do not have to fight alone. Thank You for the example in Scripture of Your faithfulness to Your people. Come now, Holy Spirit, fill us with Your presence. Protect us, heal us, and give us rest. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen