Main Verse: 1 Samual 14:1-23

Good morning!

There was a standoff between the Israeli army and the Philistines. Saul had ordered all his men to fast until he had vengeance on his enemy. Saul’s son Johnathan knew something had to be done about the Philistines, so he crafted a plan to attack the Philistine garrison. So, with his faithful armor-bearer, he showed his face to the enemy. The proof of God’s leading would be if the enemy said, “Come up to us …” then they would climb the rock wall and attack the garrison. Sure enough, the enemy did say, “Come up to us and we’ll teach you a lesson”. Johnathan and his armor-bearer did more in one day than all the days the Israeli army had done by hiding in the Craigs; this singular event shook the Philistine’s arrogance and pride and woke the Israelis from their fitful sleep. Before the attack on the garrison, Saul and the Hebrews shook with fear at the very thought of the Philistines. After the attack and the subsequent events, the Hebrews became courageous and joined the fray to defeat the Philistines.

            “Fear” is debilitating because it keeps us from moving forward, taking hold of God’s promises, and enjoying the peace and joy that is ours in Jesus Christ. Fear is like mold it grows in cool dark places and spreads like wildfire. The best way to break fear’s death grip is to take positive corrective action (Ephesians 3:20). Johnathan did what his father, the King, would never do, take his life in his hands to create an opening or, a chink in the enemy’s armor. Johnathan could have stayed in the camp along with the rest of the army but instead, he chose to be brave and trust in the Lord’s provision. My encouragement for you today is that in whatever situation you are confronted with, trust the Lord’s promises and step out in faith (Acts 4:29-34).

I.H.S. MK

Father,

Fear is a common ailment that is overcome by action and forward movement. I am not able to stop the enemy on my own but with my hand in yours, all things are possible. Please help me today to step out in faith like Johnathan.

In Jesus’ Name