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by Kevin Pauley
The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the strength of my salvation, and my stronghold. - Psalm 18:2
The citizens of Feldkirch, Austria, didn't know what to do. Napoleon's massive army was preparing to attack. A council of citizens was hastily summoned Easter Sunday to decide whether they should try to defend themselves or display the white flag of surrender.
The pastor rose and said, "Friends, we have been counting on our own strength, and apparently that has failed. As this is the day of our Lord's resurrection, let us just ring the bells, have our services as usual, and leave the matter in His hands. We know only our weakness, and not the power of God to defend us." So the church bells rang and the enemy, hearing the sudden peal, concluded that the Austrian army had arrived during the night to defend the town. Before the service ended, the enemy broke camp and left.
David describes God as: (1) a rock; (2) a fortress; (3) a shield; (4) strength; and (5) a stronghold. On the battlefield it is important to identify those elements that are constants and those that are variables. Rivers can be diverted. Towns can be flattened. Large rocks and mountains, however, are not likely to be moved. We can use them strategically to funnel the enemy or to give ourselves cover and concealment. God is our rock. He is a known in a life filled with unknowns.
A fortress gives us breathing room. It is a sanctuary to which we can withdraw to lick our wounds and be able to go back into the fray with a renewed vigor. God calls us to Himself offering sanctuary.
Body armor, or a shield, allows us to advance boldly without being overly concerned with our personal safety. God’s promise of eternal life, His assurance of salvation and His provision of the leading of the Holy Spirit is our shield. We can leap into life, uncaring for our own safety.
Strength is such a vital element of combat that hours of each day in the life of a Marine is spent in physical exercise and training. We Christians gain strength as we lean more and more on Christ. As we realize daily our own personal weakness and inadequacy and turn more and more to His strength we become more than conquerors.
A stronghold is a fortress that is built into solid rock, high in the cliffs. It gives those within it the strategic advantage of the heights. Christian, you stand high above your enemies. You are in a safe place. Why descend to their level? Why try to fight the battle on the field of their choosing? Trust God. Follow His rules of combat. As illogical as they may seem they inevitably lead to victory.
Kevin Pauley is a pastor and writer. He lives in Illinois with his wife, Lynn, their five children and two dogs. His internet address is Berea.
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