October 4, 2016 - FOR US FIGHTS THE VALIANT ONE

Day 278 - 2 Chronicles Tuesday (chapters 11-15)

“And when Judah looked, behold, the battle was in front of and behind them. And they cried to the LORD, and the priests blew the trumpets. Then the men of Judah raised the battle shout. And when the men of Judah shouted, God defeated Jeroboam and all Israel before Abijah and Judah.” (2 Chronicles 13:14-15 ESV)

“The Lord fights against Jeroboam for the sake of Abijah and Judah. Today, when trouble assaults and surrounds you, call out confidently to the Lord. He fights mightily on your behalf and in ways beyond your comprehension, as demonstrated in his victory over Satan at the cross.” (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 685)

The last day of this month, October 31, is REFORMATION DAY. In the battle hymn of the Reformation penned by Dr. Luther, we sing words that are reflected in this section of 2 Chronicles, and most clearly portrayed on Good Friday.

With might of ours can naught be done, Soon were our loss effected;
But for us fights the valiant One, Whom God Himself elected.
Ask ye, Who is this? Jesus Christ it is, of Sabaoth Lord,
And there's none other God; He holds the field forever. 
  (The Lutheran Service Book,  Concordia Publishing House, 2006, #656)

Almighty God, as we daily face the old evil foe, remind us that we are not alone, and that for us fights the valiant One. May He hold us all close forever! Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

The following link is to the 52 Week Reading Plan Bible upon which these devotions are based. http://www.bible-reading.com/bible-plan.pdf