18 The Israelites were subdued on that occasion, and the people of Judah were victorious because they relied on the Lord, the God of their ancestors.
Talk about faith. Their down two to one in man power 800k to 400k and they call out to their foe and say you better give up God is with us. Its not surprising Jeroboam did not listen to the warning. His faith must have been low to all but gone at this point. He must have almost scoffed at the idea that they would run from this battle. But as we see he should have, God can do anything if we just rely on him. \
Repeated lesson throughout the bible. I know you and I both say all the time we need to rely on Gd but struggle to act like the people of Judah. I want to really try to note the times during the day when I have the opportunity to rely on God--then take even 5 seconds to call upon him to direct me. Thats my challenge to myself--being aware of when I can talk to him during the day and get direction and support.
knut
As I'm reading thru all the Old Testament battle stories....it makes me understand the middle east a little bit better. I can see how religion and politics are one in the same for them....and why they say the things they do. They are using this mindset as a model for them. "God is on our side, and he will deliver you into our hands"...that sort of thing. Even though their situation is completely hopeless and they need to stop. Its interesting to me.
ReplyDeleteSecondly; what is it with gold calves? Why do the people always make golden calves? They don't seem to learn that they need to stick REALLY tight with God...but why the calf? Why not a camel, or a scorpion?
hhhhmmmmm