July 12, 2023
The God Who Fights Our Battles
SARAH FREYMUTH
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“And he said, ‘Listen, all Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem and King Jehoshaphat: Thus says the LORD to you, “Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God’s.”’” 2 Chronicles 20:15 (ESV)
Rain tears across the pavement, batters the windows and distorts the view as I push myself into the morning. Shortly after I rise, I’m reminded of the physical, mental and emotional strain I’m sludging through, my heart constantly heavy from the burden I bear.
It all feels insurmountable, impenetrable. The thorn in my side doesn’t dislodge. I am weary and worn out, my faith on the brink of surrender.
But the sun streaks suddenly through the sky, pushing back the rain clouds that give way to rays of light. Nothing about my circumstances shifts in this moment, but a steady knowing grows in me: My God sees and understands, and He has not left me to flounder through life on my own.
The Lord is fighting for me. He is at work because He hears the cry of His daughter.
Sometimes the pain of this world or our own personal suffering can corner us and fill us with a fear we never thought possible. It feels like the enemy of our souls is charging toward us and there is no stopping the advance.
But the God of our fathers stands ready with power and might in His hand, making a way (2 Chronicles 20:6).
We see the Israelites in a similar position in 2 Chronicles 20 — trapped, with their enemies marching against them. A mountain of armies descended around King Jehoshaphat and the people of Israel. Fear was palpable through the city, and a great alarm was raised.
What did King Jehoshaphat do? He called the people from every town in Judah to stand with him at the temple of the Lord and inquire of God (2 Chronicles 20:4).
He prayed, “O our God, will you not execute judgment on them? For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you” (2 Chronicles 20:12, ESV).
The people stood and waited, placing their lives and hope in the Lord in an act of great dependence. The Israelites had nowhere to turn except toward God.
Our situations can be so dire that we come to the absolute end of ourselves, unable to see a way through. But we have a saving grace in our God, who hears our cries and is mighty to save.
When the Lord spoke through Jahaziel son of Zechariah, He responded with compassion and authority, both incredible characteristics of One who comes to save:
“And he said, ‘Listen, all Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem and King Jehoshaphat: Thus says the LORD to you, “Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's”’” (2 Chronicles 20:15).
The battle is not ours — it’s the Lord’s. Yet He still tells us to turn and face our hardship. We don’t run from it; we stand with our eyes toward the fear, the irresolution, the crumbling walls around us. But then we watch for our deliverance with faith fastened to the God who makes good on His promises. He promises to be with us when we face our battles, whatever they are.
Today the sun will stay, and I will take hold of what I cannot yet see. By faith, I stand and face the turmoil, believing that the battle is the Lord’s. He goes before me, making a way.
He promises to fight for us when we turn our hearts to Him and seek His voice; pour out our helplessness to Him; and let Him move against our enemies, those hounds of hurt, confusion and fear.
Whatever your struggle is, lay it before the Lord. Have faith in Him. Give thanks and keep a posture of humility and gratitude, even before you see any changes. Especially before. He is faithful, and His deliverance will come.
As we praise, He is at work. He is always at work.
Father, I feel like I am cornered, my back against a hard wall, with no way out. I’m overwhelmed and fearful. But You are my God who sees me and responds because You love me. Would You come to my rescue today? You’re the only One who can fight this battle, and You are strong. I’m so glad You go before me, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
OUR FAVORITE THINGS
To the woman who feels like she’s fighting alone, we see you. That’s why we want to share this episode of the Encouragement for Today Podcast with you. You’ll hear a devotion from Nicki Koziarz based on Galatians 6:2 that will show you how you don’t have to carry everything on your own. Click here to listen now!
ENGAGE
For more from Sarah Freymuth, you can visit her website or connect with her on Instagram and Facebook.
FOR DEEPER STUDY
Isaiah 41:13, “For I, the LORD your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, ‘Fear not, I am the one who helps you’” (ESV).
What have you been fearful of? Where is God holding your hand and helping you in the midst of it?
Make a list of all the ways God has helped you in impossible situations in the past. Then ask Him to add your current situation to the list, and trust that He is indeed your help.
We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comments.
© 2023 by Sarah Freymuth. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
P.O. Box 3189
Matthews, NC 28106
www.Proverbs31.org