Hold on to See the Victory
There is an essential lesson about depending on God in Exodus 17:11-12. As Moses stood atop a hill, in a place called Rephidim, and Joshua fought in the valley, Moses engaged in intercessory prayer for Israel, especially for Joshua. Moses wasn’t just there holding up his arms. He was working while the battle was raging. Moses was standing so the Israelites could see him and be encouraged to fight, and Moses was praying. He was multitasking in the best way possible.
The battle raged on, and Moses’ brother, Aaron, and his brother-in-law, Hur, gave him comfort by standing on opposite sides to support his weary arms. No matter how seasoned or how strong our faith is, we need the help of other believers.
Jesus told his disciples in John 13:34-35 (NIV) that they were to provide for each other. He said, “A new command I give you. Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
We know who is going to win the war, but many battles make up the war, and we may experience numerous disappointments. Although we know the battle is the Lord’s, our flesh is fragile and experiences pain.
Just as Amalek prevailed for a time at Rephidim, so, too, do the enemies of good sometimes seem to be winning. As narratives become intertwined and unclear, people turn their backs on the truth. “Amalek” seems to have the upper hand, but believers must hold on, just like Moses!
In our hands are the tools to wait for the victory faithfully.
1) Believers must have made-up minds. In the Book of Ruth, the young widow Ruth told her mother-in-law Naomi, “I will not turn back.” Luke 9:62: “And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”
2) Believers must speak affirmations with confidence. These truth-affirming statements can be found throughout the Bible and will help to strengthen believers to endure. In the Book of Psalms, two well-known affirmations can be found in Psalm 23:1 and Psalm 42:5.
3) We must depend on the Lord and not our strength. Matthew 28:18: “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” Jesus is our advocate, and he has the power to deliver us.
Moses was tired, but he held on. He knew the battle was far too important to give up. His battle became an example for us. It is a reminder that God is faithful, and believers must remain faithful by holding on to the Word of Truth and trusting in him. The battle may be raging, but the war is not over. Hold on to God!
St. James AME Church is located at 360 Dorothy St. in Charleston and worship service is held on the first and third Sundays of each month at 11 a.m. Join us on Zoom at pastorv.com.
