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Ready for a Turnaround
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2/20/2010
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"Arise! For this is the day in which the LORD has given Sisera into your hands; behold, the LORD has gone out before you."
- Judges 4:14 NASB
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Israel had sinned, and God allowed them to fall under the control of Jabin, king of Canaan. Jabin had a technological advantage and an army with superior weapons, including 900 iron chariots. He used these advantages to oppress Israel "severely for twenty years" (v. 3). Their situation must have seemed hopeless.
During that time, Israel was being judged by the prophetess Deborah. One day she summoned Barak and told him God was commanding him to take 10,000 men and march to Mount Tabor. Then she gave him God's strategy for victory: "I will draw out to you Sisera, the commander of Jabin's army, with his chariots and his many troops to the river Kishon, and I will give him into your hand" (v. 7). Barak agreed to move forward, but only if Deborah went with him.
As they approached Mount Tabor, Israel saw Sisera's mighty army, and it must have been an intimidating force. But Deborah knew that God was with them, and she told Barak, "Get ready! Today the LORD will give you victory over Sisera, for the LORD is marching ahead of you" (v. 15 NLT).
Encouraged by Deborah's word, the army confidently entered into battle and won a decisive victory. In an instant, their entire situation changed.
How often we can feel like Israel--outnumbered and facing an enemy with superior resources. But, like Israel, we need to know God is with us, and He can give us victory.
Today, remember that God is on your side. Don't be timid, but commit your situations to Him. Trust Him. Obey His Word and seek the leading of His Spirit. God can turn your situation around! Make sure that you're ready to engage the enemy--not retreating, but moving forward boldly, filled with faith, trusting in God.
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| Prayer |
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Father, I commit these difficult situations to You: ______. I believe that You can do all things. Thank You that You are always with me. I trust in You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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| Extended Reading
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Judges 4
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