The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

WHEN GOD JOINS THE FIGHT

David’s army defeated the Philistines in two phases of battle. In both confrontations, the deciding factor was God’s intervention — not Israel’s military might. David inquired of the Lord both times, yielding to his divine pleasure and will. God accomplished victory for his people and increased his fame among the nations. Even then, God was on a mission to redeem his people and set a precedent for what he would do in the future.

Often, the physical battles of the Old Testament illustrate the spiritual battles between the forces of good and evil. In overview, the life and ministry of Jesus outline the cosmic fight in which Christ defeats Satan and his hosts. Jesus drove out demons (Mt 12:22) and gave his disciples the authority to overcome Satan’s power (Lk 10:18 – 19). The enemy was disarmed and defeated on the cross (Col 2:15), but Satan’s ultimate demise won’t come until the consummation of history (Rev 20:7 – 10).

Jesus, when I face battles in life, help me to turn to you as David did, seeking your pleasure and will. Amen.