Fighting the battle

““Be strong and courageous! Don’t be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria or his mighty army, for there is a power far greater on our side! He may have a great army, but they are merely men. We have the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles for us!” Hezekiah’s words greatly encouraged the people.” 2 Chronicles 32:7-8 NLT http://bible.com/116/2ch.32.7-8.nlt

Hezekiah gave this speech to Israel. This pep talk was in sharp contrast to the verbal abuse from the Assyrian leadership. They ruthlessly taunted God's people. This powerful enemy had no idea what they were up against. Just after this speech and a powerful prayer to God, the Assyrian army was completely destroyed.  Their leaders were sent home with their tails between their legs. It was so bad that when the Assyrian military leader got home, his own sons killed him.

"Be strong and courageous." 

These are not just hollow words. They come with the backing of the most high God. Serving the Lord is so much more than empty rhetoric. When you are a part of the family of God you have the full weight and power of The creator of the universe backing you up. We can always be encouraged by his power and strength. We can be encouraged he does not let us suffer alone. We have his grand army to fight our battles. Life is full of stress and turmoil. We have enemies. We may not have an army sitting outside our town ready to kill us, but our life's challenges are no less powerful. We need the power of the Lord. We CAN be strong and courageous because of our loving savior. We have the Lord our God to fight our battles for us. Praise God!

Dear Lord, I love you so much and am confident in life with you at my side. I praise you for the power and might that you have used on my behalf. I'm humbled that you love me so much that you spare no resources in defending me from my enemies. I pray this day will be a day of glory for your purposes and may my service be worthy of your love. Amen!