Monday, March 27, 2017

God of War

 This week I began reading through Psalms again. The number of verses speaking of war caught my attention. While war is never something to desire, there are times when justice must be carried out, and in the Old Testament times the Lord did call His people to battle. To fight for their land, their homes, and their faith. And it was He who gave them the power, strength, and victory when the occasion arose.

He trains my hands for war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze...For you equipped me with strength for the battle; you made those who rise against me sink under me. You made my enemies turn their backs to me, and those who hated me I destroyed. (Psalm 18:34, 39-40, ESV)

The Lord lives, and blessed be my rock, and exalted be the God of my salvation--the God who gave me vengeance and subdued peoples under me, who delivered me from my enemies... (Psalm 18:46-48a)

Who is this King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord, mighty in battle! (Psalm 24:8)

Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me! Take hold of shield and bucker and rise for my help! Draw the spear and javelin against my pursuers! Say to my soul, "I am your salvation!" (Psalm 35:1-3)

...for not by their own sword did they win the land, nor did their own arm save them, but your right hand and your arm, and the light of your face, for you delighted in them....Through you we push down our foes; through your name we tread down those who rise up against us. For not in my bow do I trust, nor can my sword save me. But you have saved us from our foes and have put to shame those who hate us. (Psalm 44:3-7)

There is no delight in war, but there is great joy in knowing that God gives victory. Wars and battles today are but a shadow of the spiritual battles that take place daily in the hearts and minds of believers. And when justice is pursued and meted out among the nations, we see a glimpse of the righteousness that will reign when King Jesus returns.

In your majesty ride out victoriously for the cause of truth and meekness and righteousness; let your right hand teach you awesome deeds! Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the king's enemies, the peoples fall under you. 
Your throne, O God, is forever and ever. The scepter of your kingdom is a scepter of uprighteness.
Psalm 45:4-6



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