In our spiritual life, it is crucial to recognize that we are engaged in a spiritual battle. The devil has malicious intentions against us, seeking to prevent us from fulfilling God’s will and living in a state of joy and victory. However, as followers of Christ, we are more than conquerors and have the victory through Him. The question we must ask ourselves is: Do we live like it?
Recognizing the Battle
2 Chronicles 32:2–8 provides a vivid depiction of a physical battle that offers profound lessons for our spiritual lives. When King Hezekiah of Judah saw that Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, was coming to fight against Jerusalem, he took proactive steps to defend his kingdom. He consulted with his princes and mighty men, stopped the water supply outside the city to deprive the enemy, rebuilt the walls, and prepared weapons in abundance. Hezekiah also encouraged the people, reminding them that with God on their side, they need not fear.
Hezekiah’s Example of Leadership
King Hezekiah was a remarkable leader, known for his wholehearted devotion to God. He served as a king who sought God’s will in everything he did and prospered because of his faithfulness.
2 Chronicles 31:20-21: “And thus did Hezekiah throughout all Judah, and wrought that which was good and right and truth before the Lord his God. And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered.”
2 Kings 18:5-7: “He trusted in the Lord God of Israel; so that after him was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor any that were before him. For he clave to the Lord, and departed not from following him, but kept his commandments, which the Lord commanded Moses. And the Lord was with him; and he prospered whithersoever he went forth: and he rebelled against the king of Assyria, and served him not.”
Hezekiah’s success was rooted in his unwavering trust in God, his commitment to following God’s commandments, and his willingness to seek wise counsel.
Seeking Wise Counsel
One of the key steps Hezekiah took in preparing for battle was seeking counsel from his princes and mighty men. He recognized the importance of surrounding himself with wise advisors to make informed decisions.
Proverbs 24:6 emphasizes this: “For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: And in multitude of counsellors there is safety.”
As leaders in various capacities—whether as bosses, parents, pastors, or community members—we must understand the value of seeking counsel. We don’t have to know everything, but we are responsible for making the right decisions. Seeking Godly counsel helps us avoid mistakes and leads to better outcomes. So often our own pride gets in the way of asking for help.
Building Up the Wall
Hezekiah took responsibility for repairing the broken walls of Jerusalem, recognizing that previous battles and neglect had left them in disrepair. He understood that a strong defense was essential for the safety and security of the city. Similarly, in our spiritual lives, we must address the areas where our defenses are weak or broken.
These “broken walls” can be areas in our lives where the devil can gain a foothold. We need to be diligent in identifying and repairing these weaknesses, even if they are the result of past sins or generational issues. Taking responsibility for our spiritual walls means actively working to rebuild and strengthen them.
Trusting in God’s Power
Ultimately, Hezekiah placed his trust in God, acknowledging that the true battle belongs to the Lord. He encouraged the people to be strong and courageous, reminding them that while the enemy relies on physical strength, they have the Lord their God to help and fight their battles.
Proverbs 21:31 states: “The horse is prepared against the day of battle: But safety is of the Lord.”
1 Samuel 17:47 adds: “And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands.”
Our preparation and trust in God’s power go hand in hand. We must prepare as if the battle depends on us, but trust that God will do the fighting. In a spiritual battle, our physical efforts are insufficient without God’s intervention.
Living as Overcomers
As Christians, we are overcomers through our faith in Jesus Christ. The devil has already been defeated, and we have victory over sin and death.
1 John 5:4 reminds us: “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.”
Romans 8:31 encourages us: “What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?”
In our spiritual battle, we must follow Hezekiah’s example by seeking wise counsel, taking responsibility for our spiritual defenses, and trusting in God’s power. We need to recognize the eternal value of our lives and the impact we can make for God’s kingdom. As we defend our spiritual castles, let us rest in the assurance that God fights our battles and grants us victory through our faith in Him.
Reflection Questions:
- Do you seek wise counsel in your decisions?
- Are you actively working to rebuild and strengthen your spiritual walls?
- Is your faith firmly placed in God to fight your battles?
By answering these questions and taking steps to follow Hezekiah’s example, we can live victoriously and fulfill God’s purposes for our lives.