The Israelites had returned to the LORD. They got rid of their Baals and Ashtoreth poles (false god statues) and they worshipped the LORD alone. This faith got tested quickly, though, as the Philistines got ready to attack. This time, instead of coming up with their own game plan, they turned to the LORD. Samuel brought a sacrifice to the LORD on Israel’s behalf, and the LORD answered him positively.
While Samuel was sacrificing the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to engage Israel in battle. But that day the LORD thundered with loud thunder against the Philistines and threw them into such a panic that they were routed before the Israelites. The men of Israel rushed out of Mizpah and pursued the Philistines, slaughtering them along the way to a point below Beth Kar. (1 Samuel 7:10-11 NIV)
When we go through battles in life, we can go through them with God or without God. When we go through them with God, it is good to take the time to pause and recognize the victory that the LORD has given us. This pause and celebration (once the battle is over) will help us remember the victory next time we are in battle. Followers take the time to remind themselves who is King.
Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far the LORD has helped us." (1 Samuel 7:12 NIV)
How about you? Do you go into “battle” with or without the LORD? When you fight the good fight with the LORD, do you pause to celebrate the victory? Does this help you remember who is King?
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