God’s Protection is on the Battlefield

In the Valley of Elah stood a seasoned warrior. This champion of the Philistines possessed the best bronze armaments and knew how to use them. He approached the camp of the Israelite army and called out to them. Mocking his opponents, the roughly ten-foot-tall brute challenged Israel to send a man out to do battle against him. This challenge was repeated by Goliath for forty days, morning and evening (1 Sam. 17:1-16).

Across the way, where God’s people were encamped, the king of Israel was not preparing to go onto the battlefield. Along with his soldiers, King Saul was “dismayed and greatly afraid” (1 Sam. 17:11). During the forty days of Goliath’s derision, the details of Saul’s movements and emotions are mostly left to our imaginations. We know that King Saul had recently been punished for rejecting the word of the LORD (1 Sam. 15:26). Did Saul sheepishly retire to his tent each time the Philistine presented himself? Did he wish Samuel would come to visit him, to offer some encouragement or forgiveness? Did he even once consider fastening on his sword and coat of mail and going out to face the heathen? Was he trusting that the army camp would be his protection?

While visiting his older brothers, an Israelite youth heard Goliath’s ridicule. The young man’s reaction was strikingly different. David immediately asked, “who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?” (1 Sam. 17:26). Notice how his focus is on the truth of God’s identity and ability. David told the king that he was willing to go and fight the giant (1 Sam. 17:32-37). Rather than cowering among the people, hiding in his tent, or returning home to his father, David went onto the battlefield! David told Goliath that God would give him the victory, and that’s exactly what happened (1 Sam. 17:45-51). Most notably the Israelite youth proclaimed, “the battle is the LORD’s” (1 Sam. 17:47). Do we believe this today in regard to our spiritual skirmishes?

What favor should we expect to receive from God if we are not on the battlefield? When our family and friends are lost in sin, are we evangelizing or sheepishly retiring to our tents? When our brothers and sisters need encouragement and helpers in the work, are we fastening on what God has equipped us with or neglecting our duty to serve? Don’t sit idle, rejecting the word of the Lord and expecting protection from the same. A life of Christian service comes with challenges, but don’t you think God is more likely to provide strength, favor, and protection for those willing to go into battle for Him? Absolutely. “The eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him” (2 Chron. 16:9).