Scripture Reading: Judges 3:1-2 Now these are the nations which the LORD left, to prove Israel by them, even as many of Israel as had not known all the wars of Canaan; Only that the generations of the children of Israel might know, to teach them war, at the least such as before knew nothing thereof;
Reflections: In the conquest of Canaan, the Lord deliberately did not allow the people of Israel to conquer all the cities that made up the entire territory at once. As such Israel had to dwell within enemy territory with a mandate of engaging in warfare from one generation to the other. This accorded each generation the opportunity to learn the art of warfare which was exactly what God wanted. Warfare was therefore not an option for God’s people. They had no choice than to engage themselves in it. The whole idea for this design of living was to get Israel hooked up to God all the time. God knew that the absence of warfare will allow complacency to set in which will lead to His people abandoning the fellowship they have with him. Like the people of Israel, spiritual warfare is not an option for you (Ephesians 6:10-18). As long as you get attacked by the enemy, you will run to God for help. In so doing you will be enabled to strengthen your relationship with Him as you battle unto victory. The presence of warfare is therefore a blessing in disguise. Without it, you may end up ignoring God and His standards for your life!
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to appreciate the necessity of spiritual warfare and to adhere myself to its principles.
Confession: The presence of satanic forces and their opposing activities makes me conscious of my fellowship with God.