Connect

“Next to him was Eleazar son of Dodai the Ahohite. As one of the three mighty warriors, he was with David when they taunted the Philistines gathered at Pas Dammim for battle. Then the Israelites retreated, but Eleazar stood his ground and struck down the Philistines till his hand grew tired and froze to the sword. The Lord brought about a great victory that day. The troops returned to Eleazar, but only to strip the dead.” 

– 2 Samuel 23:9,10

The Old Testament is full of some pretty awesome stories about rugged warriors. One whose courageous acts are particularly worth noting is Eleazar, who, alongside King David, was the captain of a troop of soldiers defending Pas Dammim, which was a pass area through the mountains that was believed to be very strategic in battle. As he fought the Philistines in hand-to-hand combat, every one of his men retreated and deserted him. Nevertheless, he held his ground and continued to fight by himself with his sword. In fact, the Bible says that his hand froze to his weapon because he was so tired from holding it. Though he fought alone, the Lord used Eleazar’s tenacity and persistence to bring about a great victory that day, and when the troops ultimately returned to the battle site, they came only to strip and plunder the dead!

My friend, even though you do not fight with physical weapons of war, as a Christian, you are engaged in a battle against the forces of darkness in this world. The Lord has given you a divine burden to tear down strongholds, and this happens when you stand your ground in conviction and prayer. When He tells you to keep fighting, it’s imperative to not abandon your post, even if everyone around you has surrendered in retreat. When you are tired and it feels like your hand is frozen to your sword, keep praising Jesus and allow Him to move the mountains that your own strength cannot. God is with you, for you, and moving through you to bring about great victory in His Name!

Prayer


I want to be a mighty warrior for you, Jesus, so give me the tenacity, strength, and resolve to hold my ground, even when others around me retreat.

Reflection


Which strongholds has God burdened you to tear down?

Receive your daily eDevotional

Don't miss new updates in your email!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *