THE GOD WHO FIGHTS YOUR BATTLES

The God we serve is not only loving and compassionate but also a mighty warrior who fights for His people, ensuring their victory over every enemy and opposition. His power and faithfulness are evident throughout the Scriptures, as He steps into battles that are beyond human capability to handle. The name Jehovah-Nissi, meaning "The Lord is My Banner," was proclaimed by Moses in Exodus 17:15 after a significant victory over the Amalekites. This name reveals a profound truth about God: He is the God of Battles, who fights for His people, leads them to victory, and ensures that His power and presence are always available in times of conflict.

Therefore, God's assurance to His people is clear: when they walk in obedience and trust in Him, He fights their battles. Exodus 23:22 declares, "But if you indeed obey His voice and do all that I speak, then I will be an enemy to your enemies and an adversary to your adversaries." This promise is a divine covenant that God stands against those who oppose His children. In Deuteronomy 20:4, we see this reiterated:

"For the LORD your God is He who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you." No matter how overwhelming the opposition may seem, when God fights for you, victory is certain.

God's intervention in battles: examples from scripture

• The Amalekites vs. Israel (Exodus 17:8-16):

When Israel was attacked by Amalek, Moses, Aaron, and Hur turned to God. As Moses lifted his hands in prayer and reliance on God, the Israelites prevailed. This highlights the power of dependence on God in battle.

• Jehoshaphat's Victory (2 Chronicles 20:1-23):

Jehoshaphat faced a vast coalition of armies. Instead of panicking, he called for prayer and fasting. God responded, saying, "The battle is not yours, but God’s" (2 Chr 20:15). The Israelites won the battle without lifting a sword, as their enemies turned on one another.These examples teach us that God is the decisive factor in any conflict. When He intervenes, no enemy can stand.

God is your refuge and strength

When enemies attack your life, health, family, business, or ministry, you have a dependable refuge in God. Psalm 46:1 reminds us: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." This means you are never alone in the battle. God’s presence is immediate and active, shielding you and turning situations in your favor.

The weapons of your warfare are spiritual

The battles we face today are often spiritual, fought in the unseen realm. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 6:12: "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." No one can win the battle of life alone without God, except we surrender our lives to Jesus Christ and possess the fruit of the Spirit of God (Galatians 5:22-23) to enable the God of battle fight for us.

As the God of Battles, the Lord equips His people with spiritual armor:

• The belt of truth,

• The breastplate of righteousness,

• The shield of faith,

• The sword of the Spirit (the Word of God),

ensuring they are fully prepared for spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:13-18).

However as believers, our battles are not fought with physical weapons but through spiritual means. "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds." Prayer, the Word of God, faith, and praise are powerful weapons that dismantle spiritual opposition and fortresses. Through these, God fights on your behalf, bringing down every barrier the enemy erects.

God's presence makes you unstoppable

The story of Elisha and his servant in 2 Kings 6:16-17 is a remarkable example of God’s unseen protection. When surrounded by enemy armies, Elisha prayed for his servant’s eyes to be opened, revealing a heavenly army of fiery chariots surrounding them. Elisha boldly declared:

"Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them."This echoes the truth in Romans 8:31: "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" When God fights for you, His overwhelming power makes every opposition insignificant. Moreover, the God of Battles does not send His people to fight alone. He goes before them and fights with them. In Deuteronomy 31:8, Moses reassures Israel: "And the Lord, He is the one who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed."

When God is present, His power and authority turn impossible odds into certain victories. This is echoed in 2 Chronicles 20:15, where God declares to Jehoshaphat: "Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s."

God's promise of victory

God assures His people that no weapon formed against them will prosper. In Isaiah 54:17, He declares: "No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn."

Even when enemies gather to plot against you, as stated in Isaiah 54:15, their plans will fail because God is with you. The God of Battles does not merely promise to fight for His people—He assures them of victory. Romans 8:37 declares: "Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." This assurance stems from God’s unchanging character and His covenant with His people. Throughout Scripture, God’s way of fighting battles often defies human logic. He calls His people to trust Him and obey His instructions rather than rely on their strength or weapons. Here are examples that illustrate His wisdom as the God of Battles:

• Joshua and the Battle of Jericho (Joshua 6):

God commanded Israel to march around the city in silence and blow trumpets on the seventh day. This unconventional strategy demonstrated that the victory belonged to God, not human effort.

• Gideon and the Midianites (Judges 7):

Gideon’s army of 32,000 was reduced to 300 men. With torches and trumpets, they routed a massive enemy force, showing that God's power, not numbers, wins battles. Fear not: god is with you.

Fear often paralyzes us in the face of challenges, but God commands us to be strong and courageous. In Deuteronomy 31:6, He says: "Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you." Jeremiah 1:8 reinforces this, reminding us that God is our deliverer. His presence guarantees victory.

God scatters your enemies

When God fights for you, He not only defeats your enemies but utterly scatters them. "The LORD will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before your face; they shall come out against you one way and flee before you seven ways" (Deuteronomy 28:7). Psalm 89:23 adds, "I will beat down his foes before his face, and plague those who hate him." This demonstrates the overwhelming power of God to not just protect but to destroy opposition. No matter the strength or ferocity of your enemies, you have the assurance of victory because God is with you. His power, faithfulness, and promises are unshakable. Stand firm, trust in Him, and remember: "Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us" (Romans 8:37). When God fights for you, victory is inevitable. Trust in Him, use the spiritual weapons He has given you, and see His mighty hand deliver you from every battle.

A call to rely on the god of battles

The story of Jehovah-Nissi is a call to recognize God as the source of victory in every battle we face—physical, emotional, or spiritual. When we raise the banner of the Lord, we acknowledge that:

• The battle belongs to Him,

• Our strength comes from Him, and

• Victory is guaranteed by His power.

In practical terms, this means:

• Prayer: Seeking God's guidance and strength before engaging in any challenge.

• Faith: Trusting in His promises, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

• Praise: Lifting His name high, knowing that worship invites His power into the situation (2 Chronicles 20:22).

Again! the God of Battles is the One who fights for His people and brings them victory. When we place our trust in Him, lift His name as our banner, and rely on His strategies, we can face any opposition with confidence. Just as Moses declared in Exodus 17:15, we too can say, “The Lord is my banner! “Let us remember the words of Psalm 20:7: "Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the Lord our God." Under His banner, there is no battle too great, no enemy too strong, and no challenge too daunting for the God of Battles.

TURNNING TO GOD IN TIMES OF ADVERSITY

The subject title "Looking to God When Faced with Adversity" is a biblical principle that encourages believers to look up and seek God's guidance, strength, and comfort during times of hardship, trials, and tribulations. This principle is found throughout the Bible, in both the Old and New Testaments. "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8). Satan is the author of confusion, the originator of all troubles that befall humanity. Adversity in the real term is described in the Bible as a time of hardship, suffering, or difficulty.

It is often portrayed as a test of faith, character, and endurance. Here are a few examples:

1. The case of Job’s Trials: The Book of Job is perhaps the most well-known biblical account of adversity. Job was a righteous man who lost his wealth, his children, and his health in quick succession. Despite his intense suffering, Job refused to curse God, instead choosing to trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty (Job 1-2).

2. The persecution and suffering of Joseph: In the Book of Genesis, Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused of a crime, and imprisoned. Despite these adversities, Joseph remained faithful to God. Eventually, he rose to a position of power in Egypt and was able to save his family from famine (Genesis 37-50).

3. The childlessness situation of Hannah: Hannah is one of the most significant figures in the Bible who struggled with childlessness. Her story is found in the first book of Samuel, chapters 1 and 2. Hannah was one of the two wives of a man named Elkanah. The other wife, Peninnah, had children, but Hannah had none. Hannah's childlessness caused her great distress. In the culture of the time, barrenness was often seen as a curse or a sign of divine disfavor. Peninnah, the other wife, would provoke and irritate Hannah because of her barrenness, which would make Hannah weep and not eat.

Paul's Trials of faith in life and ministry: The Apostle Paul faced numerous adversities in his ministry, including imprisonment, beatings, shipwrecks, and opposition from both Jews and Gentiles. Yet, he considered these sufferings as nothing compared to the glory of knowing Christ (2 Corinthians 11:23-29, Philippians 3:7-11).

5. The suffering of Jesus without any sin: The ultimate example of adversity in the Bible is the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. He was betrayed, arrested, falsely accused, beaten, and crucified. Yet, through His suffering and death, Jesus accomplished the salvation of all who believe in Him (Isaiah 53, Matthew 27, John 19).

Certainty of trials and troubles in this world

The Bible says in John 16:33, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world”. The verse suggests that trials and tribulations are an inevitable part of life. It is a certainty that everyone will face difficulties at some point in their lives. There are many lessons to learn in this verse as it provides hope that we can find peace in God and that He has already overcome the world. The Bible is clear that in this world, we will face trials and troubles. This is not a possibility, but a certainty. However, the verse assures us that while trouble is certain, so is Christ's victory over it. Brownlow North, a 19th-century preacher, said, “Every Christian may settle it as a truth in his own mind, that his whole life will be a life of conflict.” This quote emphasizes that Christians should expect to face trials and tribulations throughout their lives. Again, trials and troubles are a certainty in this world, but we can find peace and hope in God with assurance that God is with us in these trials and will provide a way through them.

In the book of James 1:2-4, it stated, " My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers’ temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing". This passage tells us that trials are not only certain, but they are also beneficial, as they produce perseverance and maturity in us.

Another encouragement word from (1 Peter 4:12-13), " Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy." Here, Apostle Peter is telling us not to be surprised when trials come, implying their certainty, but to rejoice because they allow us to share in Christ's sufferings and glory.

Apostle the Paul added this in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, "we are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed." Paul's words here reflect the certainty of trials and troubles in this world, but also the certainty of God's presence and help amid them. Through the spirit of God upon him Paul concluded that, "who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?... No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us (Romans 8:35-37)." This passage acknowledges the certainty of various trials, but also the certainty of our victory in Christ. Therefore, nothing can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. This includes life, death, fears, worries, angels, demons, things present, things to come, powers of hell, height, depth, or any other creature.

Our attitude during the adversity

The Bible provides numerous examples of how we should maintain a positive and faithful attitude during adversity. The Bible is a treasure trove of wisdom, a beacon of light guiding us on how to remain steadfast, positive, and faithful even in the face of adversity. Let's delve into some of the key scriptures and biblical narratives that inspire us. In other word, this is telling us to align ourselves with the teachings of Jesus Christ. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted" (Matthew 5:4). This suggests that those who look up to God in their adversity, expressing their grief and seeking His comfort, will be blessed. Looking up to God When faced with adversity" is a call to trust in God's sovereignty, goodness, and love, even during suffering. It encourages believers to rely on God, seek His presence, and find hope and strength in their faith.

Here are some key scriptures and biblical examples when faced with adversities: The book of James declared; " My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers’ temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing (James 1:2-4)." This scripture encourages us to have a joyful attitude during adversity because it strengthens our faith and character.

The story of Job is a prime example of maintaining faith during adversity. Despite losing his wealth, health, and children, Job did not curse God but remained faithful. Job 1:21 says, " And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." What happened to Hannah in the Bible is a great lesson to all Christians that are trusting God for the fruit of the womb. Every year, Hannah would go to the house of the Lord at Shiloh to pray for a child. In her deep anguish, Hannah did not give up but prayed to the Lord, weeping bitterly. She made a vow, saying, “And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head 1 Samuel 1:11).” God remembered Hannah, and she conceived and gave birth to a son, whom she named Samuel, meaning "God has heard". As she had vowed, once Samuel was weaned, she took him to the house of the Lord at Shiloh and dedicated him to God's service, where he grew up to become one of the most important prophets in Israel's history.

Paul and Silas did not lose focus on God even though they both faced difficulty in the ministry. Instead, they used the opportunity to worship and pray to God inside the prison. " And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them (Acts 16:25)." Despite being beaten and imprisoned, Paul and Silas maintained a positive attitude, praying and singing hymns to God. This is a clear indication that ‘’the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you (1 Peter 5:10)." This scripture encourages us to have a hopeful attitude, knowing that God will restore and strengthen us after our trials.

Another Bible character is Joseph that suffered adversity is Joseph. Through the Spirit of God upon Him, he focused on God to receive the promises of God upon him. He gladly forgave his brethren and said. "But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive (Genesis 50:20)". Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph maintained a positive attitude and saw God's purpose in his adversity.

In epistle of Paul to the Corinthian church, he described his ordeal in the ministry that God gave him. As a minister, we may ask ourselves as an individual sometime, why I mine faced with these challenges despite God called us into the ministry? Apostle Paul has this to encourage the church in Corinth and stated, " We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed (2 Corinthians 4:8-9)." Paul's words here reflect the attitude of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. Apostle Paul faced numerous adversities, including imprisonment, beatings, and shipwrecks. Yet, he also wrote in 2 Corinthians 12:10, "Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong." Paul looked up to God in his adversity, finding strength in his faith.

In all these examples, adversity is not seen as a punishment or a sign of God's disfavor. Instead, it is often used by God to refine and strengthen the faith of His people. The Bible encourages believers to persevere in times of adversity, trusting in God's goodness and faithfulness (James 1:2-4, Romans 5:3-5).

In the Old Testament, the story of Job is a prime example. Job was a man who faced immense adversity, including the loss of his wealth, his health, and his children. Despite his suffering, Job never cursed God but instead continued to praise Him (Job 1:21). He looked up to God in his adversity, showing his unwavering faith.

It's time to seek the Lord with our whole heart, repent of any sin committed, confront the challenging circumstances through prayer, and they will be turned around in the mighty name of Jesus Christ out Lord.