‘Hear, O Israel, you are approaching the battle against your enemies today. Do not be fainthearted. Do not be afraid, or panic, or tremble before them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.’ (Deuteronomy 20:3-4 NAS)
To most of us pastors, it seems that many people think we are different and some kind of super Christian. Of course, that is a false understanding of humanity. We (pastor and pew-sitter alike) battle the same sorts of enemies.
The enemies of our souls are unique to the individual, yet share common traits in all of us. Due to our common weaknesses, we all experience a weak-kneed timidity from time-to-time. We all are assailed with fear of the enemies roaring and raging. We know the panic of the enemy’s display of strength and power. And it is easy to tremble in the face of a prospective battle with him.
So, we can easily identify with Israel as the enemy approaches. In addition, the Lord’s comforting counsel to Israel is appropriate for us as well. Keep your chin up with a strong heart for the battle. Look the enemy in the eye and refuse to be afraid. Rebuke the panic attacks. And do not tremble at how fierce they look.
Now, remember that we pastors are also human! So, we understand that falling off a log is easier than this. But the key to victory over the enemy is (1) listen to God and (2) believe God.
Note that the first instruction to a terrified Israel is: “Listen to me . . .” And the second is an explanation that God is going to fight the enemy for his people. So, I conclude that the key to victory over the enemy is Listen to God and believe God.
Listen to him when the enemy approaches and believe that He will fight the battle for you. Because He is with us and has promised to never leave us. His intended purpose is to save us from all our enemies.
Dear Father, thank you for your saving grace through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Empower us to both listen to you and believe that you will do what you have promised. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be courageous today as you listen and believe,