“And Moses built an altar, and named it ‘The LORD is My Banner.’”
Exodus 17:15, NASB
Remember the fascinating story about Moses on the mountain, raising his hands while God’s people fought against the Amalekites? Do you recall how Aaron and Hur climbed up the hill with Moses, supporting his hands when he wearied of lifting them high? I’ve always loved that narrative as a demonstration of friendship’s tremendous value.
But there’s So. Much. More. to this incredible account.
First off, it’s critical to recognize that Moses held the “rod of God” in one of his hands–the very same staff he’d used to initiate some of the ten plagues … to part the Red Sea … to draw water from the rock. As he lifted it up for all to see while they waged war against their enemy, surely its prior role in God’s miracles inspired them to fight for victory.
Yet the rod itself wasn’t extraordinary. It simply served as the instrument through which God revealed His power.
You know, we all get tired from time to time. The Christian life involves many battles against the enemy of our souls. We all benefit from a friend or two in crisis moments. Sadly, however, we sometimes attribute our victories to the people around us or to the method God uses rather than God Himself. We say things to each other like, “I never could have done it without you,” rather than, “The Lord used you to help me through this.” While it’s good and right to acknowledge the part fellow Christians play in our successes, let’s never forget the Source.
Because when all is said and done, the LORD is My Banner.
He’s “the center of attraction on which people should pin their hopes.” HE holds the power, HE gives the strength, HE arranges us as Christ’s body so we can help each other, and HE pulls details together with a wisdom we can’t fathom. As we look to God and lift up Christ’s name, we’ll find:
“He gives strength to the weary, And to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, And vigorous young men stumble badly, Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.” Isaiah 40:29-31
Dear one, what battle rages in your life today? JEHOVAH-NISSI IS ABLE. He’s your Banner, your rallying place–the One you can always turn to. He provides safety and shelter along with direction.
He’s the God of victory.
Until next time, Happy Thanksgiving and much love to you in Christ,
Emily
photo credit: Sunset via photopin (license)